Atherton Collieries have finalized their squad for today’s opening day clash against Avro with five new faces alongside one returnee to bolster the ranks.
Following an impressive showing against the Colls for Bolton Wanderers last weekend, Ellis Litherland has joined the Collieries on a six-month loan between the sticks. A member of the Bolton B team, having previously played alongside familiar faces such as Luke Hutchinson and Arran Pettifer, Litherland made his first impression on Northern Premier League football with a short spell at Bamber Bridge at the end of last season, having also previously represented Lower Breck.
Speaking on the addition, David Chadwick said: “I saw Ellis last season at Bamber Bridge and he had a great game. He was very commanding and made some brilliant saves, when we found out he was available we jumped at the chance to sign him! As everybody could see last Saturday, for Bolton against us he made three or four world-class saves to keep us at bay.”
Winger Adam Dawson, who first joined the Black and Whites midway through last season, has officially returned to the Colls following a short stint with Guiseley. The international futsal specialist made 14 appearances for the Colls last campaign, notching two man of the match performances alongside a singular assist.
Reinforcing the midfield options, manager David Chadwick has signed Dave Edwards from Armenian outfit Lernayin Artsakh, Pa Babou Jenkins from Ramsbottom United and Noah Inneh from Portuguese club Louletano.
Both Edwards and Inneh have previously represented Stalybridge in England before taking their careers abroad, whilst Pa Babou, known as Babs, broke through with Ashton United before making a name within non-league at New Mills and Ramsbottom. Alongside a formidable offensive record of 11 goals and 4 assists across his debut season with the Millers, Babs is also capable of slotting into a full-back role. Noah and Dave have both represented the Colls throughout recent friendlies.
David Chadwick adds: “Noah is a local lad who has a bit of everything in his game, his ability and attitude should make him a great addition to the squad.
“I’ve kept an eye on Pa for a couple of years since seeing him as a young lad at New Mills. He’s got a great engine, tidy on the ball and can play in a few positions, I’m looking forward to seeing him develop!”
Defensively, Toba Obitayo has signed for the Colls following an impressive pre-season trial deputizing for Tom Dean at centre-half. The Dubliner made the move to the fields of Atherton following spells in England with Bromsgrove and Chippenham, in the Conference South and Southern League Premier respectively, having also previously played for Irish outfit Corduff FC.
On the addition of Toba, the gaffer says: “Toba is a big strong defender who can play in a variety of positions and I’m made up we have got him over the line, he has the potential to make a real impact with us if he fits in with the group.”
