West End frustrated by a delay to Ford Quarry return, says Lids
to our home ground, and they have a facility on their doorstep.
“A lot of clubs in the league have a place in their community but we have been different.
“Now we can do that, and we have men’s, women’s and junior teams in our club so we can build a spirit and become part of the community.
“That’s why we are so keen to get started and return to Ford Quarry.”
On-field preparations for the new season are already well under way for Liddle and his players.
They kicked off a hectic pre-season friendly schedule with a 4-0 defeat at Division One promotion contenders Shildon last weekend, and followed that up with a narrow 2-1 loss at
Seaham Red Star.
Liddle has strengthened his squad with former Billingham Town winger Matty Hughes and Hebburn Town Reserves defender Max Nelson signing for the club.
But the West End boss is keen to add to his attacking options as he looks to improve on last season’s record of scoring just 38 goals in 29 games.
“We didn’t really have too bad a side last season – although we did struggle to score goals,” he admitted.
“We haven’t fixed that yet, but we will do that by bringing in strikers over the next couple of weeks.
“If we can get those strikers in, they can make the difference and that is what we need.
“A lot of games we lost by one goal last season, so hopefully if they come in, we can push for the top eight or top six.”
West End have also confirmed that Steve Cook has joined Liddle’s management team ahead of Saturday’s pre-season friendly against former Wearside League rivals Silksworth CW, which is set to take place at Downhill Football Hub.