Eve-of-season capture Mathew Whittingham is the latest young player through the dressing room door at APEC Taxis Stadium. He brings an impressive CV after representing some of of England's most famous clubs. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder, who hails from St Helens, started at Liverpool before a move to Manchester City saw him develop into one of their top young prospects. Eight years with the Citizens culminated in an Under 18s Premier League winner's medal with seven g

Versatile Finley Ryan has been promoted to the first-team squad after impressing in pre-season friendlies. The 19-year-old joined our Under 21s midway through last season to play in attack - although Michael Ellison has utilised Fin at left back, having spotted his potential at training. Fin lives in Widnes and attended Wade Deacon School, where staff recommended him for Cheshire Under 16s selection. Our U21s boss Ste Ellams managed the county side but Fin was unavailable for

Michael Ellison has strengthened his options in wide positions with the capture of 20-year-old Lewis Bell. Lewis, primarily a right winger but capable on either flank, spent last season at Marine and joins us after featuring late in pre-season. After initially playing for the Mariners on loan in 2024-25, he made a permanent switch to Crosby last summer. Lewis - no relation to our fellow new recruit Kian Bell - featured in 27 games in all for the National League North club, mo