Former PNE star McKenna set to make Longridge bow

There was a big buzz surrounding the club when Town boss Ashcroft announced the Deepdale legend’s signing.

The former North End star – who made more than 500 Football League appearances – has had to wait to make his bow after arriving at the Mike Riding Ground from NPL First Division North outfit Bamber Bridge earlier this year.

But with Jonty McDonald and Ryan McKenna playing in a LFA cup final with their Sunday League team – and Jordan Tucker is absent – the stage is set for Paul McKenna to come into the team.

Town boss Lee Ashcroft said: “When we signed him, I wanted him to play week in week out but he’s here for his coaching badges. He’s not been able to watch us over the last couple of weeks but he’s been training with us and I’m glad he’s filling in. He’s looked good and he said he’s happy to fill in.”

Town beat Slyne 4-3 a couple of weeks ago and Ashcroft said: “We were lucky on the day last time we played Slyne, but we dug in.”

Town were beaten 2-0 on Saturday by West Lancashire League Premier Division title favourites Charnock Richard

“We got out battled by the home side on Saturday. We certainly weren’t at our best and that was disappointing.

Town have two big home games over Easter with Eagley on Saturday then a big game against Blackpool Wren Rovers on Easter Monday.

Ashcroft said: “Eagley are a good side, they beat us on the last game of the season last year and they got a good result a few weeks ago against Wren Rovers.

“Wren Rovers will be a tough match. They’ve been on a good run but we beat them on the opening game of the season.”