Port aces ready ahead of the big one
LIAM Watson has confirmed both Jason Gilchrist and Liam Edwards will be available for Southport’s massive FA Cup clash with Tranmere Rovers this weekend.
Gilchrist, who was last season’s top scorer in the Vanarama Conference North, has found the net twice this season while defender Edwards - on loan from Bolton Wanderers - made three appearances before sustaining a knock in the win over Boston.
Both players missed out on Tuesday night’s 2-0 victory over Chester in the FA Trophy third qualifying round.
Goals from David Morgan and Jordan Archer - who netted within three minutes of each other handed Southport victory as Liam Watson’s side marched into the first round proper.
Defender Andy Parry - who rejoined the Sandgrounders for a third time this summer is also in contention for Saturday after being introduced as a substitute with 15 minutes remaining on Tuesday.
“If it would have been Marine on Tuesday, Andy would have started,” Watson said. “[Was] it fair to throw him in [from the start] at Chester? Probably not.
“However, if I had to I wouldn’t actually fret because a lot of football is in your head isn’t it and he’s usually one step ahead of most people. It’s a brilliant bonus to have him back.”
Watson also confirmed the club are continuing to scour the transfer market for new signings this winter. Despite a recent upturn in form, it is understood that the manager remains keen on strengthening the core of his squad.
“We’re always looking. I’ve got people watching games for me all the time,” the former AFC Telford boss added.
“We’re taking in potential, it’s like the here, the now, the future. People always get brought up and highlighted but we are always busy looking.”
Southport face Solihull Moors in the FA Trophy first round on Saturday 15th December.