Ashton United sign talented winger

Byrne made over 100 appearances in Gladiators colours and had a 2022/23 season to remember, topping the club's scoring charts with nine goals and making more assists than any other player in the Northern Premier League.

He becomes the Robins' first summer signing as manager Steve Cunningham looks to assemble a squad capable of bettering last season's 14th-placed finish at Step 3.

Matlock say Byrne's decision to make the move to Ashton United is due to increased family commitments and the 30-year-old's desire to play closer to home.

On the signing of Byrne, Cunningham said: "My focus this year is on players who contribute a lot to a side.

"Alex's assist and goal stats over the last two years have been exceptional so I'm delighted to sign one of the league's best players."

Byrne's announcement follows confirmation that the Robins' centre-back pairing of Sam Baird and Sean Newton have been retained as part of next season's squad.

Photo credit: Matlock Town