New-boys looking to boost their ranks
Bosses at a new football club in Shropshire are on the hunt for an assistant manager – while two teams are on the lookout for players.
Craven Arms Town is set to launch its inaugural campaign in the Mercian Regional Football League later this year.
Manager Dan Evans has already assembled a squad of around 20 players which he is keen to expand and he is also looking for a No.2 to assist him in the dugout.
He said: "I am looking for an assistant manager. Anybody with a bit of football knowledge is welcome to apply.
"They must be available on Thursday nights, which is when we train, and Saturdays for matches.
"A background in Sunday or Saturday football would help but I am stepping up from Sunday League football and I am happy to hear from anybody who wants to help."
The club, which is expected to be placed in Division Two of the county league, is also on the lookout for more players to swell the squad number towards the 30 mark.
Evans said: "I'd like to have a squad of around 25-30 and anybody over the age of 16 is welcome to get in touch."
The team will play its matches on the town's playing fields behind Craven Arms Community Centre and training takes place on Thursdays at 6.30pm.
Craven Arms are one of three new arrivals who have been accepted to join the Mercian League for next season.
The Mercian League is Shropshire's premier Saturday football competition and acts a feeder to the West Midlands Regional League.
General Secretary Phil Davies confirmed that FC Oswestry Town Reserves and Coven United have also joined the league set up with at least two further sides having also applied to become new members.
Oswestry Town already have a team in the Premier Division and secretary Andrew Burnett said that the club's committee had decided to expand the senior set up to increase opportunities for young players in the town.
He said: "We want to encourage local lads to play for the team and we are recruiting ahead of the new season.
"If anybody wants to come along and show us what they have got the first training session will be at 8pm on June 30."
The club plays its matches and trains at The Venue, which is also used by Welsh Premier League champions The New Saints.
Newly-appointed reserve team manager Steve Drury will cast an eye over any trialists during pre-season.
The club is planning several pre-season friendlies which will offer further opportunities for hopefuls to impress.
To enquire about joining Craven Arms call Dan Evans on 07807 850239 or for Oswestry call Andrew Burnett on 07810 715939.
