Stalybridge Celtic have formed a new under 21 side for the forthcoming season. The team will compete in the Premier Division of the North West U21 Development League, which was won by Salford City last season.

Playing home matches at both Stockport Sports Village and Bower Fold, the U21s will provide first team manager Simon Howarth with further options to bolster his squad and playing time for those on the fringes and returning from injury as the league allows the use of three overage players.

Last season's U18s, runners-up in the North West Youth Alliance, will provide the core of the new squad, under last year's U18s manager Craig South. But the team are already on the lookout for new players aged 16-20 who want an opportunity to try and force their way in to the first team picture.

First Team Manager and Head of Academy Simon Haworth commented: "I am thrilled and excited at the start of our new U21s team as it gives us a further opportunity to provide a real pathway from Juniors to Academy and onto the First Team.

"It should allow us to have a much better grip on our young talented players, which allows us to improve them technically, mentally and physically in the correct environment and all under one roof.'"

Pre-season training begins shortly with the first league fixtures, against the likes of Football League clubs Tranmere Rovers and Macclesfield Town, starting at the end of August.

Interested players should send their details via email to the Under 21s Team Manager Craig South at under21@stalybridgeceltic.co.uk