WAYNE Goodison has said a search for Greg Hall’s replacement is ongoing but 1874 Northwich are prepared to be patient.

In the meantime, Callum Spencer has an opportunity to impress.

The 21-year-old, a regular for Knutsford when they won the Cheshire League’s Reserves Division One title in 2017, acted as understudy to Hall last season.

“He’s signed on and we’ll continue to pick him,” said the co-manager.

“One of the biggest changes we’ve made since we were appointed is to promote young lads if we think they’re good enough.

“It wouldn’t feel right to only apply that to outfield players.”

Along with joint-manager Paul Bowyer he has spoken to, and met, potential new recruits between the posts.

Those conversations will continue, and there isn’t at this stage one target that is considered a priority over another.

Hall, 32, brought to an end his stay at Barton Stadium after making close to 150 appearances when he accepted an offer to join Witton Albion last month.

Selected as the best in his position in the North West Counties League’s Premier Division last season, he made his debut during a 3-0 defeat against Southport in a friendly on Tuesday.

Goodison said: “We had already started looking at and talking to other goalkeepers due to how we felt about the way the situation with Greg was unfolding.

“It’s an important position to fill, and Witton have got themselves a good ‘keeper.

“But we had a sense of unease about the commitment that we expect from players not perhaps being the same with him.

“He’s gone now, and we’ll move on quickly.”

1874 Northwich’s friendly at Barnton tonight, Thursday, has been cancelled.

They play next at Leek on Saturday, kick-off 3pm.

Jack Pritchard (knee) and Scott McGowan (ankle), who both sustained injuries during a 3-1 win at Alsager earlier this month, are expected to train before then although a decision on when they return to action will be made later.