Baker close to closing business

5 Jul 2017 By David Watters

Leek Town manager Neil Baker is close to completing his squad for the coming EVO-STIK League season after agreeing terms with striker Chris Budrys and swooping to sign midfielder Kyle Blake from Newcastle Town.

Budrys moved to Harrison Park from Welsh League club Airbus UK 12 months ago before going on to score eight goals last season and Baker is expecting more from the big striker this term.

Blake kicked off his career at Doncaster Rovers where he progressed through the youth ranks before joining Nantwich Town following his release at the age of 18. After going on to play for Newcastle Town, Market Drayton Town and the Dabbers for a second time last season he returned to EVO-STIK League South rivals Castle.

Blues officials are reporting that winger Sam Grimshaw is still mulling over an offer to remain at Harrison Park and is expected to report for training in the coming days after Baker, pictured, welcomed 21 players back for their first training session at North Staffordshire University last week.

Baker has been forced to change his pre-season programme after Gainsborough Trinity pulled out of their trip to Harrison Park on Saturday 22 July. Mickleover Sports agreed to replace the National League North outfit after the Blues moved swiftly to fill the vacancy.

Image courtesy of Leek Town/Pitchero

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Where next?

Preparations paying off for duo Matlock Town joint managers Craig Hopkins and Glenn Kirkwood reckon competition for places among their squad is already paying dividends as they prepare for the upcoming EVO-STIK League campaign.