Wild moves to strengthen Linnets’ hand
New arrivals and extended deals for fans favourites
NEW Runcorn Linnets boss Dave Wild has wasted no time in shaping his squad ahead of the 2022/23 Northern Premier League West Division campaign.
The Linnets ended last season in fifth place and were left devastated after narrowly missing out on promotion via the play-offs, losing 2-1 to Marine FC in the final.
Since then, gaffer Calum McIntyre left to join Chester FC and before the arrival of Wild, the futures of several first team players were up in the air.
However, the appointment of Wild has prompted a host of signings.
The division’s top scorer last season, Ryan Brooke, has joined Sean O’Mahoney (most appearances for the club last season), hometown striker Eden Gumbs, midfielders Lewis Doyle, Louis Hayes and Jacques Welsh, full backs Ally Brown and James Short and skilful winger Stuart Crilly in all extending their deals at the club.
These contract extensions have been mixed together with an impressive four signings, which have certainly provided optimism ahead of the new season.
Former Colwyn Bay and Marine wide man James Ellison, 29-year-old former Tranmere Rovers and Wrexham goalkeeper Andy Coughlin, defender Daryll Grant (who previously played for Wild at Stockport Town) and experienced striker Ben Halfacre (who has previously played for the Linnets) have all joined the club.
Further to this, the Linnets have also confirmed the signing of Sidi Sanogo, from newly promoted Macclesfield FC.
The 23-year-old Spaniard played on 23 occasions last season for the North West Counties League Premier Division champions and is described as a dynamic, athletic midfielder strong with both feet.
His previous clubs also include UD Fraga, EF Fraga and UE Bordeta, all in his homeland, and since coming to England he has served AFC Darwen, Bamber Bridge and Radcliffe.
Wild has talso been busy building behind the scenes with a number of off-the-field appointments including former Linnets striker Jamie Rainford who has returned to the club as assistant manager in a move which sees Rainford reunite with Wild, the manager who signed him for Mossley from Linnets in November 2019.
Jack Gleave comes in as sporting therapist having worked under Wild at Mossley and Matlock Town and Liam Hudson as data analyst and player liaison officer after spells with Wild at
● Fans’ favourite Ryan Brooke has extended his stay at Runcorn Linnets Stockport Town and Mossley. Jon Urquhart returns as kitman.
Meanwhile, Wild also confirmed that popular figure David
Philips, who has been a valuable member of the backroom team since 2012/13 will remain at the club as a goalkeeper coach.