Karl Marginson to keep adding

 Source: MEN

 Tony Glennon

 FC United boss Karl Marginson is adamant he won’t let the surprise departure of popular keeper Sam Ashton make him think twice about continuing to strengthen his squad.

Ashton has left FC to join fellow non-Leaguers Skelmersdale, ending a five-year stay in which he played a key role in helping the Rebels climb from the North West Counties League to Evo-Stik Premier.

The 24-year-old former Bolton reserve-teamer, who made 167 FC appearances and was a real fans’ favourite, quit after telling Marginson he was concerned about still being able to get regular first-team football in the wake of United’s recent capture of ex-Northwich keeper James Spencer.

Marginson said: “I can perfectly understand Sam’s reasons for leaving us, but we need to maintain a strong squad and I have to do what I think is best for FC United.

“On both a personal and professional level, I’m sorry to see Sam go, but I think competition for places is necessary if we’re to continue to move forward and the players we have got for this season are happy to fight for a starting spot.”

New Rebels keeper Spencer was in fine form against landlords Bury despite Mike Jones giving the Shakers a 1-0 victory at Gigg Lane.

Nicky Clee scored either side of half-time to give Altrincham a 2-0 win over a Tranmere XI in Mark Maddox’s testimonial.

Blue Square Premier side Stockport County, meanwhile, were 2-0 winners at Buxton as Dietmar Hamann notched his first win as Hatters manager. Meanwhile, Droylsden have signed midfielder Warren Peyton.