Transfer: Iain Howard returns to Colls

Atherton Collieries have landed their second signing of the season, with midfielder Iain Howard returning to the club from Curzon Ashton. On joining the club, the former Chester favourite commented, "I'm very happy to be signing for Colls because it's my local club and they have done very well over the last few seasons. I want to be part of that." "Clegg is a fantastic young manager and I'm keen to play for him and if I can help in any way that's my plan." Speaking ahead of the new season in the Evo-Stik League, Howard was optimistic that it could be another successful one. He explained, "I think our aim for the season should be to try and get promoted again. This is a promising, young talented side and I hope I can bring a lot of experience while helping to develop the younger lads." The former Hesketh Fletcher pupil has a good pedigree in non-league and was in the Curzon Ashton side that narrowly lost to AFC Wimbledon last season. "Last season was a good season for me. We had a good FA Cup run at a fantastic club but due to work commitments I just couldn't play for Curzon again this season so that's why I'm excited for this challenge." Manager Michael Clegg, who has been working hard to pull off the signing over the past few days outlined just how happy he is to finally get his man. "It's a massive signing for a number of reasons," he stated. "When we took over at Colls the aim was to always get the best local players wearing the black and white stripes." "Iain is an Atherton lad. He went to Hesketh Fletcher High School and still lives in the town." "He is already familiar with the squad and he has watched us loads of times over the last few years, getting behind us as we've gained two promotions in three seasons." "Secondly, I believe he is coming to us at his peak. He has had a fantastic time in non-league football so far and I firmly believe his best years are still ahead of him." "He sets high standards for those around him and is going to be a great role model for the younger lads in our side." "Like the vast majority of non-league footballers, he has to juggle playing with a family life as well as work commitments. It's something that proved difficult last campaign for Iain, playing football in the National League, travelling to the likes of Boston United on a Tuesday night. As much as it will hurt him to leave Curzon and the National League's behind, their loss is definitely our gain." "We are all delighted to have him on board. He's one of the hardest working players I've come across in non-league and he has the ability to match." "Make no mistake, it's a massive coup for us as a club. We're very lucky to have him." "I'm sure he will quickly become a fans favourite." "Again, this is definitely another sign of how far this club has come in such a short space of time. Speaking about the possibility of further signings, Clegg explained that there may be a couple more additions. "We have a couple more players who have been training with us since the start of pre-season. They will hopefully be signing for us over the next few days and then that will be our business done for now." It is expected that Iain Howard and Danny Lambert will both feature in the match today at West Didsbury & Chorlton.