NEWLY-appointed Ramsbottom United manager Lee Sculpher is already hard at work formulating his plans for next season, and is confident of building on last season's fine showing.

The former Clitheroe boss said: "I am delighted to be taking over at the club and hope to build on what Derek Egan has achieved.

"It was unfortunate that Derek went because he was doing very well, but I'm confident of building on what he started.

"My initial intention is to keep the squad together and then add to it.

"The club have made contact with the majority of last season's squad and they all seem keen to stay, that would obviously make my job easier."

Sculpher is also hard at work contacting potential transfer targets.

"I have been speaking to a number of people who I would like to bring in but, as always happens in non-league football, no-one really wants to commit themselves so early on," he said.

"I have been finding out their views on joining us and they seem interested in what we have to offer.

"I want as many players as possible for the start of pre-season training, which begins on July 2."

Sculpher is thought to be eyeing some of his old charges from his successful Clitheroe squad.

During his time at The Blues, Sculpher led the Shawbridge side to the North West Counties First Division title before leaving in November after nearly five years at the helm.

One man who may be on his way out of the Riverside is young midfielder Bernard Morley.

Highly-rated playmaker Morley will spend pre-season with Radcliffe Boro after manager Kevin Glendon invited him over to Stainton Park for a trial.