Akrigg is back as first team coach

A lynchpin of the Skem defence for a number of years before moving to National League Southport in 2011, Akrigg, pictured, was unveiled on Tuesday as the successor to Andy Paxton following his summer departure to manage Prescot Cables.

After leaving the EVO-STIK NPL Premier Division club, the 29-year-old defender went on to become a fans' favourite at Haig Avenue, making more than 60 appearances for the Sandgrounders. A serious knee injury in 2014 later forced Akrigg to hang up his boots at AFC Telford just 18 games into his Bucks career after being made captain.

Lawson has operated with only assistant manager Brian Richardson to share the workload since early last season and Akrigg has told Skem fans is looking forward to playing his part as part of the touchline team at Stormy Corner over the EVO-STIK NPL's upcoming 2016-17 top flight campaign.

In a club statement announcing his return, Akrigg revealed he still has hopes of rekindling his playing career after being contacted by Lawson about coming back as a coach.

He said: “I instantly wanted to join him the only problem was work commitments. I am grateful though that my employer has allowed me to re-organise my working shifts and here I am.

“Tommy looked after me as a player and developed my game over the time I was at Skem. The chance to work alongside him and help him develop players was too good to miss and I agreed to the move instantly. Since I had my chat with Tommy I have been working really hard and hope to be properly fit very soon.”

* Skelmersdale United season tickets priced at £180 for adults and £100 for concessions will be on sale up to kick off time on Saturday when Lawson's side kick off their season at home to Grantham Town.

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