Deegan is finishing touch for Fell

Ramsbottom United manager Mark Fell is backing striker Ben Deegan to add more than goals to his squad's upcoming EVO-STIK League campaign.

The tall targetman drew a blank in a 0-0 draw with Lancaster City after signing last week but Fell is certain he will soon find his shooting boots as well bringing some vital experience to the Rams in EVO-STIK League West.

The 30-year-old former Altrincham, Ashton United, Droylsden, FC United of Manchester, New Mills and Warrington Town forward played for both Glossop North End and promoted Hyde United last season and Fell said: “We’ve not had this type of striker since Gaz Seddon, he’s good on the ball for a big man, he can win the flick-on’s and bring others into play. He’s a good lad to have in the dressing room and knows what this division is all about.”

Fell is also delighted with a double loan deal for Chester's Nathan Brown and Alex Downes over the weekend with both initially signing until October with an option to extend.

Nathan Brown

Nathan Brown

Striker Brown, 19, came through the academy ranks at the Deva and was voted 'Young Player of the Season' last term before penning a new contract in the summer. Defender Downes arrived from Wrexham, making his debut last season in the Cheshire Senior Cup and has also signed a new summer deal with the National League North club.

Hailing them as "exciting talents", Fell said: “Both are very highly thought of at Chester, Jonno [Chester boss Anthony Johnson] rang me a week ago giving me an indication of their availability and it’s clear they have high hopes for them both. It’s great that they see us as the right club to help them progress.”

Fell has also put the finishing touches to his touchline team with the appointment of goalkeeping coach Andy Robertson ahead of his side's opening game of the 2018-19 campaign on Saturday at home to Market Drayton Town.

No stranger to the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium having made eight appearances for the Rams in 2008, Robertson also played for a host of club's during an illustrious Non-League career including Chorley, Droylsden, Mossley, Witton Albion and Trafford.

Alex Downes

Alex Downes

“The goalkeeping coach position is something we needed to sort,” added Fell, “Rubz knows the level well, has been an excellent keeper himself and has put superb sessions on for Sam Ashton and Nik Stinca. He’s a great character to have around the club and a good addition to our staff.”

Images courtesy of @RamsbottomUtd/Twitter

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