Patience pays off as Runcorn Linnets land midfielder Declan McLoughlin

Runcorn Linnets are delighted to announce the arrival of Declan McLoughlin.

The centre midfielder joins on the expiry of his 18-month contract at Pitching In Northern Premier League Premier Division club FC United of Manchester.

Dec, 25, is Brad Cooke's second new signing of the summer, having been in rhe manager's sights for months.

Having already played in Northern Premier League West for three clubs, he said:

"I’m buzzing to sign for Runcorn Linnets.

"I’ve seen and heard some really good things about the club.

"Being at FC United for the last two seasons has given me good experience of playing in the league above.

"I hope I can come to Linnets and bring energy and creativity to the midfield to push us all where we want to be.

"Hopefully we can have a successful season together."

The 25-year-old Linnets newcomer had been a regular pick at FCUM since joining them from Skelmersdale United.

His 83 outings with the Red Rebels yielded 12 goals.

Linnets boss Brad Cooke admitted:

"I have been chasing Dec since I walked through the door.

"He’s a proper box-to-box midfielder with an eye for goal - another player from a higher level who had a lot of interest.

"I’m delighted he chose us. It’s a real statement signing and he is someone I can’t wait to work with."

Dec signed for FCUM in July 2023 on non-contract terms but his form and attitude prompted their then manager Neil Reynolds to offer him a contract at Broadhurst Park.

Reynolds used Dec an attacking right back, the Wigan-born player's versatility and reading of the game proving more than useful attributes.

Dec had previously made 31 appearances for Bootle over 11 months from October 2021, scoring twice.

In 2022-23, he moved to Skem, who were at the time still in NPL West.

Dec featured in 28 matches for the West Lancashire club, scoring four goals.

The player briefly returned to the division in August last year for six appearances on a one-month loan at City of Liverpool.