FC United swoop for Swabba

Source: North West Evening Mail
Published on 10/03/2006

DAVE Swarbrick is today expected to complete a move to FC United of Manchester.

The forward impressed when scoring for Holker Old Boys in their 4-1 league defeat to Karl Marginson’s side last month.

Now FC United, the club formed in the summer by Manchester United fans angry at Malcolm Glazer’s takeover at Old Trafford and watched by crowds of around 3,000, have moved to sign the Barrow-based ace.

Swarbrick, who is on registration forms at both Moore and Co Construction Solicitors League outfit Holker and Nationwide North side Barrow AFC, was due to play in a friendly for FC United last night against Woodley Sports.

He is expected to complete a move today and be in the squad to face Flixton at Gigg Lane on Wednesday night.

Marginson, a former Barrow AFC player, said: “Dave impressed against us and expressed an interest to come to the club, so we are more than happy to give him a chance. He impressed with his pace and his great delivery.

“He’s coming in as part of the squad, and if he does well it’s all well and good for him.

“We got a letter from the lad expressing an interest. As soon as that happened I gave his dad a ring.

“I spoke to (Barrow AFC manager) Phil Wilson and he had no problem with it, I think Barrow are going to retain his registration for Conference North.”

Swarbrick started the season at Holker Street, but has failed to establish a place in the first team squad under new boss Wilson.

Last month he began playing again for Holker, the club he was at as a junior, while also featuring for AFC reserves.

For the deal to go through Holker will have to sign the necessary league transfer forms.

Holker chairman Steve Livingstone said: “We’re currently processing our side of the transfer forms. As far as we’re concerned the transfer will go ahead in the next 24 hours.

“I’ve had a chat with Dave and he’s is absolutely delighted, he’s like a kid in a candy shop. He’s a cracking lad and he’s got a great opportunity. It could be the start of a very illustrious career at FC United.”

Earlier in the season Holker staged the league visit of FC United at Craven Park. More than 2300 people watched Holker lose 2-0.

Good links have been built between the two clubs who may meet in a friendly next season.