1874 Northwich will again be forced to shuffle their back-line after George Whiteoak announced he plans to move to Australia.

The club have released him this week so he can receive international clearance to play for a side Down Under.

With Danny Thomas ruled out by injury for the rest of the season, and Craig Farnworth unavailable, it leaves them short on cover in defence.

Full-back Jack Lever has returned though following a spell with Cheadle Town, while Dilan Lomas was a spectator for a 4-1 victory against Witton Albion in the Mid-Cheshire District FA Senior Cup last time out.

Further forward, Sam Hind is available to face Padiham on Saturday after recovering from a hamstring strain.

Meanwhile Scott McGowan has completed a transfer back to St Luke’s Barton Stadium from league rivals Congleton.

Jordan Bove, who scored on his debut as a substitute during the semi-finals success against Albion, is alternative in attack.

Hosts Padiham will be without experienced midfielder Garry Hunter, who is set for a lengthy spell on the side-lines after suffering knee ligament damage.

Front man Aaron Taylor has left.

The Storks were worthy 2-1 victors when they visited Winsford earlier this month, but they have collected maximum points from only one of the other seven North West Counties League games they have played since the turn of the year.