WINSFORD UNITED have folded their reserve team following the departure of Neil Gill to Witton Albion.

Blues boss Chris Willcock admits some fringe players will leave, but believes the competition for places in the first team squad will work to his advantage.

"Losing the reserve team will not have an impact on my work," he said yesterday, Tuesday.

"Obviously there is going to be a smaller pool of players to pick from, but those with us now can use this as a chance to prove they deserve a place."

Willcock told the Guardian he was sad to see Gill go.

He said: "I wish Neil all the best."

"He's an ambitious young man, and obviously believes the opportunity he has at Witton is a good one for him."

The Blues' players returned for pre-season training on Thursday, and made an impression on their new manager.

Willcock said: "It was probably better than I expected, which was a pleasant surprise."

His charges will train three times a week until the start of the new season.

Meanwhile, Willcock will use the time to cast his eye over the current team before deciding where to strengthen.

A number of trialists are training with the team already, but none have put pen to paper on a deal yet.

One player the Winsford manager is keen to keep hold of is full back Iain Stanton, who has been mulling over a move to Middlewich Town.

"I know Iain was disappointed with how the end of last season worked out for him," said Willcock.

"But I want the chance to speak to him before he makes a decision."

Stanton was absent from Town's first get together last week, but manager Terry Murphy reiterated his confidence the defender would eventually join him at Seddon Street.

He said: "Iain has phoned me on a number of occasions to tell me he wants to play for Middlewich.

"I've no reason to doubt his commitment, and of course he would strengthen the side."

Winsford United's first friendly is at the Barton Stadium against Styal on July 22.

Matches against Rylands, Stone Dominoes, Poynton and FA Vase winners Nantwich Town have also been pencilled in before their first North West Counties Division Two fixture on Saturday, August 12.