Hot-shot commits to Skem

Twenty year old Gary Burnett has committed his future to unbeaten Skelmersdale United, writes Neil Leatherbarrow.

The striker, pictured, who joined the Evo-Stik NPL First Division North club at the start of the season, has quickly become a fans’ favourite and signed a long term contract with Skem ahead of Saturday's FA Trophy clash at home to league rivals New Mills.

His manager Tommy Lawson is tipping him to become the next star to roll off the club’s production line and follow in the footsteps of former Skem players like Craig Noone and George Donnelly who are now plying their trade in the Football League.

October’s Evo-Stik NPL First Division North manager Lawson said: "I think we have signed a player with a big future. If he works hard he will improve and improve. He is five foot eleven and a strong lad. He knows where the net is and works well with the rest of the team.

"He is skilful, quick and very keen to learn. It is that hunger that is his strong point as he has aspirations to play at a higher level and I think the potential to achieve it. He is what I call a late developer."

Burnett started out with Wigan Athletic but was released as a seventeen year old, reportedly because he was too small. After a spell in local football he signed for Atherton Collieries where he got among the goals and caught the eye of Lawson.

Since arriving at the West Lancashire College Stadium in August he has netted six times but has also quickly gained a reputation for his creative skills as well as goal scoring prowess.