Linnets boosted by trio of arrivals and extended loans
RUNCORN Linnets manager Michael Ellison has bolstered his squad with three signings while extending the stays of two on-loan players.
The new arrivals are Australian defender Yianni Nicolaou, on loan from Salford City; Gareth Grant, an experienced utility player from Colwyn Bay; and young Chorley striker Rustam Stepans.
Yianni signed a one-year deal with EFL Two side Salford in August 2019 with the option to extend.
He had already enjoyed a temporary spell at BetVictor NPL Premier side Buxton earlier in the season.
The 20-year-old has played close to 30 matches for Marconi Stallions in the New South Wales National Premier League competition.
He was also a member of their NSW Waratah Cup-winning team and represented Australia at the Asian Football Confederation Under 16 Championships in 2016.
Gareth is a strong utility player who can operate in defence, midfield or attack.
The 29-year-old joins subject to international clearance.
He previously played for Runcorn
Town, scoring 39 times in 124 appearances over five seasons.
Gareth’s other former clubs include Atherton LR, Ashton Athletic and St Helens Town.
Rustam is a striker who has most recently been playing Under 21s football for National League Premier Division club Chorley.
He appeared as a substitute for the Magpies in September’s Lancashire FA Senior Cup tie against Preston North End.
Rustam was previously part of the youth set-up at Southport and Marine.
In other news, the loan deal with National League North’s Chester for Louis Hayes has been extended until end of the season.
EFL Two club Oldham Athletic have consented to Lewis McKinney’s work experience loan continuing for another month.
Midfielders Lewis and Louis have been highly impressive in their respective stints with the Linnets so far this season.