Magpies manager Tony Hesketh has acknowledged Chorley’s need for an experienced front man, by giving a debut to 6ft 1in Chris Ward at Halifax last Saturday.

The 27-year-old striker played for Hesketh at Lancaster City and Birmingham City paid £25,000 for him seven years ago.

Ward’s success at a higher level with a number of clubs should be a tremendous help to the Magpies, whose young squad already includes plenty of quality.