RAMSBOTTOM boss Lee Sculpher is hopeful of convincing captain Steve Maden to stay at the Riverside.

It was claimed the midfielder was looking to quit the Blues and move to the UniBond League in a bid to progress his own game.

But Sculpher said: "We are in talks to try and coax Steve back in.

"He's just been a bit disillusioned, not with Ramsbottom but with the standard of football in the North West Counties.

"He does not believe enough football is being played at this level and that it is too physical, but I've told him it is the same at the leagues just above us.

"Steve is a creative player and likes time on the ball. But we are hopeful he will stay here. He's a very important player for us."

Ramsbottom travel to Congleton without midfielder Liam McManus, but Isaac Adams returns from injury.