LATCHFORD Albion have been keen to incorporate the next generation of players into their pre-season training programme.

Recently, the senior team were joined by the under 16s for a joint training session as both get themselves ready for their 2022 campaigns.

"The junior sides are ultimately the future of our club," head coach Martyn Ellis said.

"It was important for them to experience how the open age functions and for us all to train as one.

"The turnout was brilliant and everyone benefited, and we already have plans for more sessions to be held."

Having won the North West Men's League Division One title last year, Albion have been in training since December in anticipation of a move into the Premier Division.

They have organised two pre-season friendlies for next month – they will travel to Blackbrook on February 5 before hosting neighbours Woolston Rovers on February 19.

While they have not escaped the affects of the pandemic, Ellis says numbers at sessions continue to be high.

“Training has been hard yet fun for the boys," he said.

"The Covid challenge is still there, but the attendance and commitment to training has been fantastic which is testament to the squad we have assembled here.

"On a further positive, it’s been good to see some former juniors returning to the club after periods away from the game, giving more competition for places throughout the squad."

The club are still welcoming new players to their open age set up ahead of the new season, which is due to get underway in March.

For more information or to get involved, contact Martyn Ellis on 07976777563 or Mike Byron on 07769788995.