WINSFORD United boss Joe Gibiliru believes that the cold snap claiming fixtures across the country will benefit his side.

The Blues’ Vodkat Premier clash at Ramsbottom United fell foul of the weather on Saturday but it gave two Winsford players the opportunity to return to the squad.

Although Gibiliru admitted that being out of action and unable to train on the pitch is not ideal, it has given him the opportunity to iron out some issues within the team.

He said: “It is frustrating not playing but we have been able to do some training in the gym and we’ll look to do the same this week if the cold weather continues.

“But it has given Mark Calland the chance to come back from suspension without missing another game while Lee Madin has returned from injury so it’s actually benefited us.

“We have had a chat together as a squad about the recent defeats and the players have put them down to fitness and attitude.

“We have had some one-to-one sessions and we are now looking to start the new year in better form and with a better attitude.”

The 11th-placed Blues have a difficult test this weekend as they host fourth-placed New Mills at the Barton Stadium on Saturday (3pm).

Gibiliru is hoping to make a signing of a former Winsford United player this week but he is waiting for the local star to get in touch.

“I am happy with the squad at the moment but I am hoping to sign this player. He has had my number since Friday so I am just waiting now for him to call me so we’ll see what happens,” he said.

“Saturday’s game will be tough as New Mills are right up there so we are going to have to be a bit better prepared than we have been in recent weeks.”

Barnton’s Cheshire League Division One fixture at sixth-placed Rylands/Crosfields was a victim of the sub-zero temperatures on Saturday.

Mick Duckett’s men travel to Curzon Ashton Reserves this Saturday (2.15pm).

Lostock’s assault on the Cheshire League Division Two high-fliers stalled on Saturday as their clash with Grappenhall Sports was also called off.

The Grey Lambs host league leaders Tarporley Victoria this Saturday at Moss Farm (2.15pm).