NORTHWICH Vics boss Andy Preece was finally granted permission to sign new players after the Football Conference lifted the crippling transfer embargo.
It has been a frustrating wait for the Blue Square North club who have been unable to shape their squad ahead of the season opener at Eastwood Town, which is now less than a month away.
Leading the large contingent of new arrivals at the Victoria Stadium is former Salisbury City captain Ian Herring. The 25-year-old is admired by Preece and assistant Andy Morrison and should fill the void left my recently-departed midfield general Matty Crowell who has joined Michael Welch at rivals Altrincham.
Also making the move the Vics this summer are goalkeepers Kyle Clancy, from Droylsden, and Vauxhall Motors’ supporters player of the year James Coates, who is expected to be given the number one jersey. The duo will replace goalkeeping trio Ryan Clarke, Scott Tynan and Michael Jones who have all left Vics.
Up front, ex-Liverpool and Chester City striker Jon Newby and former Worcester City hitman Mark Danks, who played under Preece during his reign at the Blue Square South club.
Former Chester and Airbus midfielder Mark Cadwallader, midfieldman Harry Winter, from Telford, defender Nat Kerr and Woodley Sports midfielder Michael O’Connor were the most recent additions to the squad when the Chronicle went to press.
They join Jonny Allan, Aaron Burns, Mat Bailey, Ryan Brown, Lee Elam, Simon Grand, Luke Horrocks and Danny Meadowcroft, who have all agreed to stay put at Vics.
Vics started their pre-season campaign last night as they hosted Shrewsbruy Town at the Victoria Stadium.
On Saturday, Manchester City are the visitors (3pm) and next Tuesday, old rivals Altrincham, along with ex-Vics stars Welch and Crowell, arrive in Wincham for a 7.45pm kick-off.
Vics have planned a home friendly with League Two Cheshire rivals Macclesfield Town on Friday, July 31 (7.45pm) and away from home, Nantwich Town are the hosts at their new Weaver Stadium on Tuesday, July 28.
Pre-season admission prices are adults £7, concessions £5, U16s £1.
Vics have also announced their season ticket prices for the 2009/10 Blue Square North campaign: Stand – adults £250, concessions £225, youths £110, students £110 (ID required); Ground – adults £200, concessions £180, youths £75, children £23. Executive Club tickets are available at £375.
