New goalkeeper for Nantwich as experienced shot-stopper departs

Merner, 22, has featured three times for Leek Town this season, having previously enjoyed stints with Connah’s Quay Nomads, Sandbach United and Eccleshall.

He was named on the bench for last Saturday's 1-0 defeat at promotion-chasing Prescot Cables - a result which leaves the Dabbers 14th in the Pitching In NPL West Division, eight points clear of the relegation zone.

His arrival at the club also coincides with the departure of the experienced Roberts, who made 13 appearances for Nantwich in total.

The 33-year-old joined back in October following an injury to the club's number one Scott Moloney, and he went on to play a pivotal role in their FA Trophy run.

He made two penalty shoot-out saves on debut as they overcame Stratford Town, before going on to repeat the trip in the next round as they dumped out National League North side Chester.

Roberts also started between the posts in the club's famous 3-2 win over National League York City, before their cup run came to an end away at Solihull Moors earlier this month.

Discussing the change of personnel, manager Paul Carden said: “Eric is local to the club, and in training he’s really impressed.

"The situation with Dan is that he’s come in and done really well, but he knew the situation with Scott’s injury, in that Scott was our first choice keeper before he got injured.

"Dan is an established first choice keeper who wants to go and play as he’s at an age and experience where he should be playing.

"Eric is coming in not only to provide cover, but also competition to Scott, and is a more-than-capable goalkeeper.

"The goalkeeping situation at this time has been good, when you think the games that Dan’s had for the club, he’s certainly played his part in the cups this season and he’s certainly a good goalkeeper for anybody.”

Photo credit: Connah’s Quay Nomads / Nantwich Town