New signing Matty Rain fits the bill for Runcorn Linnets

The club is delighted to welcome Matty Rain, who joins us from Pitching In Northern Premier League West champions Widnes.

Manager Brad Cooke says the newcomer has the perfect profile for a Runcorn Linnets signing.

"He's exactly the type of player we want at the club," said the boss.

Highly-rated defender Matty had been almost an ever present since arriving at

Widnes in October 2022.

The now 23-year-old left back became a free agent on the team's unforunate demise at the end of June.

Matty had chalked up more than 100 appearances for the DCBL Stadium club overall - weighing in with four goals, all of them in 2024-25.

Outstanding form last season also earned him a coveted spot in the NPL West Team of the Year.

Possessing a magical left foot, our new signing launched his career as a trainee at Liverpool before moving to Burnley in 2018.

His involvement in senior football started at FC United of Manchester, for whom he appeared 14 times while making the scoresheet on three occasions.

Matty's performances brought him a move into National League North with Curzon Ashton.

The Chester-born player had 11 games for the Nash before beginning the 2022-23 season with Bootle, appearing 12 times ahead of his switch to Widnes.

Linnets manager Brad Cooke added:

"Matty is another great signing. When he became available, we had to speak to him.

"He’s a great age with excellent fitness levels and has a superb delivery.

"To be able to attract these types of players is a credit to everyone associated with Runcorn Linnets."

Matty Rain said of his move to the Yellow & Greens:

"I'm delighted to be joining Runcorn Linnets, Once I had the conversation with Brad, it was a no brainer.

"I know how big the club is and the fan base is - and I can’t wait to get started.

"Hopefully, my experience of last season can contribute to the team’s goals for the season."