Double act cleared to start

Ashton United's joint managers Paul Phillips and Steve Halford have received international clearance for new signings John Hardiker and Jamie Tandy to return to the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League.

Hardiker, the former Football League defender who was with Warrington Town last season needed clearance after moving over the border to turn out for Welsh outfit Connah's Quay. Former Manchester City midfielder Tandy was also given the go ahead to play over the Bank Holiday weekend following his return from Australia where he's been playing for Banbury Forum Force.

The pair bring a wealth of experience to the Premier Division's Hurst Cross with the Robins away to Skelmersdale United on Saturday and at home to Droylsden on Monday.

Hardiker, 31, has also played for Morecambe, Stockport County, Bury, Fleetwood Town, Forest Green Rovers, Stalybridge Celtic, Droylsden, Radcliffe Borough and Northwich Victoria. Apart from City, Tandy, 28, lists Koge FC of Denmark, Droylsden, Lancaster City, Hyde, Bradford Park Avenue, Salford City and Witton Albion among his former employers.