Witton keep it in the family

Witton Albion have confirmed Adam Blades as their new reserve team boss.

Despite receiving applications running into double figures to manage the newly promoted Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division club's second string, Witton opted to make an in-house appointment in Blades.

The club's reserves play in the Lancashire League and Blades will be assisted by Dave Lockett, who is vastly experienced having had a spell at Middlewich Town and scouting for a Premier League side.

Blades said: "I am delighted to have been given the chance to extend my coaching experience by being given what I know will be a challenging role. Both Dave and myself are looking forward to what lies ahead in the forthcoming season.

"My brief is clear, help to develop and identify players from our own junior teams as well as encouraging other local talent to join the club.

"The second team isn't necessarily about winning trophies, but finding players who can go on to represent the club at a senior level."

Witton's new managment team got down to business today in the hunt for local talent with preseason training and match trials.

The duo are planning to throw out their net again next Saturday with trials starting at 2pm and Blades added: "As much as I hope to see many new faces attending I hope that those who represented the club last season will also come along."