Sanders to strengthen Castle defence

Newcastle Town manager John Diskin has continued to strengthen his squad with the signing of Leek Town's Tim Sanders, writes Ray Tatton.

Sanders, 24, an ever present in the midfield of their Evo-Stik Northern Premier League rivals this season, signed on non-contract terms to give Diskin the added option of a boost to either his midfield or defence.

The Evo-Stik NPL First Division South manager said: "Tim will be a good addition to the squad and his attitude fits in with our ideals. Leek were disappointed to lose him so he is obviously highly rated by them which is a good sign for us."

Sanders goes straight into the Castle squad for the trip to King's Lynn Town on Saturday, a trek that should hold few fears for their manager given Town's recent away performances. They've included a win at Leek Town and last Saturday's 1-1 draw at promotion chasing Belper Town. In fact, Town's last defeat on their travels in the league was back on November 10th when they went down to leaders Coalville.

Apart from offering fresh defensive options, Diskin will be looking for Sanders to link up with his new striker Jay Burgess. He joined last week on a dual registration from Macclesfield Town and made his debut in the draw at Christchurch Meadow, almost opening his goals account with a glancing header that was just wide.

Coincidently, Burgess did score with a glancing header while on loan at Evo-Stik NPL First Division North New Mills earlier in the season and Diskin is confident it won't take him long to settle at the Lyme Valley Stadium either.

He added: "He showed a lot of promise and looks to be a good acquisition. I'm sure it won’t be long before he gets off the mark."