MLS academy graduate joins Atherton Collieries

A graduate of the Toronto academy in Major League Soccer, Manchester-born Beckford has predominantly played his career in the Canadian leagues, though has also recorded appearances for Curzon Ashton, Hyde United and Ashton Athletic in England.

He most notably demonstrated his goal-scoring prowess with Simcoe County Rovers in 2002, with a record of 15 goals in 17 appearances earning Beckford a move to top Canadian side Cavalry FC, with whom he won the top division in 2023.

The 24-year-old returned to England with Havant and Waterlooville in January and went on to make seven appearances in the National League South.

Beckford made his debut as a second half substitute during Colls' 2-1 defeat at Basford United on Saturday before scoring on his full debut for the club two days later in a 3-2 victory at Workington.

Monday's result still leaves Colls 11 points from safety with five games to play. Their final three fixtures also come against Macclesfield, Marine and Worksop Town, who are all are vying for a play-off spot.

Photo credit: Penn State Athletics