Yates shaping squad his way
MACCLESFIELD Town manager Mark Yates is looking to build on the success of the John Askey era at the Moss Rose – by putting his own stamp on the team’s style of play.
Yates has suggested that the team will most likely adopt a different tactical approach to that employed bu former boss Askey in the National League title-winning season.
Yates was appointed as Silkmen boss earlier this summer after replacing Askey, who left the club in order to become manager of League One side Shrewsbury Town.
Under Askey, Macc were known for their passing ability, with their efforts last season helping them pull of a historic title winning campaign.
With the team now preparing for life back in the Football League, Yates says that supporters may see a different style of play and insisted it’s something to be positive about.
“We’ve got some real talent here and if we can channel in the right way like they did last year that would be great. We might operate in a slightly different way than last year - but it’s a nice position to be in,” he told the club’s official website.
“We want as many peo- ple fit and ready to go as we can.
“We’re a little bit off at the moment in terms of numbers, but things are happening for us at the moment and we’re delighted where we are
“Hopefully another good three weeks of preseason can set us up for the season.
“Our trialists have impressed and that’s why you bring them in, to have a look. We’ll see where we are with a few over the next couple of days.”
Macclesfield are well underway with their preparations ahead of the new campaign, and picked up an impressive 5-1 win over Ashton United in a pre-season friendly on Saturday.
Yates was pleased with the display, and praised some of the players who contributed to the win at Hurst Cross.
“It was a really good work out for us. Despite the pitch being so dry, the lads didn’t shirk it and they just got on with the game and they put in a really good effort in a really hard-working day,” he said.
“The boys played 60 minutes which is really good for them, but next time I’ll be reversing the roles.
“Harry Smith and Nathan Blissett were a real handful, especially with Tyrone Marsh, Scott Wil- son and Ben Stephens playing just off them.
“We’ve got a good blend and it’s really pleasing to see because you want your strikers to score goals, so it’s good to see them chipping in already.”
Meanwhile, Macclesfield Town Football Club have announced their new Match Day Mascot package for the 2018/19 season. To celebrate the return to the EFL, the club is keen to give young supporters the chance to walk the players out on to the pitch by way of a weekly prize draw. Any child (aged between 3 and 12) who purchase a full 2018/19 home or away kit will be eligible to enter.
The prize includes two adult and one mascot match day tickets, a programme, tour of the ground and a chance to meet the players and walk them out on to the pitch.
Elaine Mercer, who coordinates the scheme, stated: “I am thrilled we are able to offer our new mascot package to our young supporters. It really is a great day out for any football loving fan.”
All entries will be drawn at random and successful applicants will be contacted by telephone/ email.
Parents/guardians will be required to complete and sign a photo consent form.