Stanley have signed goalkeeper Billy Crellin on a season-long loan from Everton.

Crellin started out at Fleetwood and had loan spells at Bolton Wanderers, Chorley and FC United of Manchester.

He was snapped up by the Toffees in January 2022 and has featured for the Under-21 side in the Bristol Street Motors Trophy and Premier League 2. He also made the bench in a Premier League clash with Arsenal.

John Doolan told the club site: "Billy will be good competition for Michael Kelly and Liam Isherwood, and we have young James Rogerson as well, who is doing well for the Youth Team.

"It's healthy competition, it's what we wanted, cover in every position.

"Billy has come from a Premier League club, he has come with a lot of potential, and we are excited to work with him."

The shot stopper has previously represented England between Under-17 and Under-20 levels.

He added: "It felt right to get out on loan now and I want to play as much as I can. Everton wanted me to play some games, there were a couple of clubs interested, including Accrington, and I was happy to come and hopefully I can help the team.

"As goalkeepers we all understand there is only one spot and we will push each other. Most of the time goalkeepers get on and understand how hard the position is. I just want to play as many minutes as I can."

(Image: Luke Reynolds Photography)

The Reds have also brought in Manchester United youngster Sonny Aljofree on a season-long.

The 19-year-old defender was part of the FA Youth Cup winning squad in 2022 alongside the likes of Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho.

Doolan said: "Sonny is a young lad coming out of Manchester United, he has a lot of potential.

"We have watched his clips, which are very good, and we can see what he brings in terms of a centre-half. He will be learning on the job.

"He has got the stature, he is technically very good and we look forward to working with him."

Aljofree previously had a stint at Altrincham and is now eager to show what he can do in League Two.

"I have done my first session at Accrington this morning and I have settled in well, I am buzzing to be with the lads," he added.

"I have been at Manchester United for the best part of my life, 13 years, that's all I have known, and it's a good time for me now to step out of my comfort zone, and try and get some appearances in the league.

"At Altrincham, when I was on loan last season, I was still training with Manchester United. This is a proper loan and I am looking forward to it, it's real football.

"It's my job to learn on the job and adapt to the playing styles. I am a ball-playing centre back that can read the game, I am not afraid to put my head where it hurts. I am a good header of the ball too.

"I spoke to Radek Vitek about a move here and he raved about it, as he enjoyed his time here. I can't wait to get started."