FORMER Avenue captain Ryan Cresswell has joined Parkgate Football Club's coaching staff set up.

Cresswell will work alongside the current management team of Andy Dawson & Lee Whitehead ahead of the upcoming 2021/22 season.

The former Avenue defender started his career initially at Sheffield United. He amassed just short of 300 Football League appearances with 30 goals for Northampton Town, Southend United, Fleetwood Town and noticeably close neighbours Rotherham United.

The 33-year-old was also in the PFA Team of the Year, won a League 2 winners medal with Northampton Town and a Play-Off Final winner during his time as a professional.

Manager Andy Dawson was quick to show his delight when Cresswell revealed he was interested in the role at Roundwood, "As soon as Cressy mentioned he would be interested, it was a no brainer for us. His experience and knowledge within the game will no doubt be invaluable at our level."

"He is a local lad who has shown a real interest in the club since we initially spoke about becoming a coach and I'm sure the players will be excited to see what he can bring to the club."

The Steelmen's Assistant Manager, Lee Whitehead also mentioned that Ryan's experience will be key for the club moving forward. "It's great for us to be bringing in someone of Cressy's stature and experience. We have a lot of young lads this year and what they can learn from him on and off the pitch will be invaluable."

Whitehead went on to add, "he will have different ideas to what myself and Andy have, and it can only improve on what we do. It's the next step for us to try and push further up the league table."