Witton to spend Titch cash on replacement (From Northwich Guardian)

Witton Albion hope to add to attacking options following Alex Titchiner's exit

12:30pm Thursday 21st June 2012 in Sport By Andrew Simpson, Senior Sports Writer

ALBION boss Brian Pritchard will sign a new striker with money paid by Fleetwood Town in compensation for Alex Titchiner.

The club confirmed to supporters at Thursday’s forum that it had reached an agreement with the Football League newcomers following the striker’s move to Highbury last month.

“That money will be invested in the team, specifically to attract somebody who we feel will be an exciting replacement for Alex.” said vice chairman Mark Harris.

“The figure we have agreed with Fleetwood is a higher one than we would have received from a tribunal, but significantly less than what we would have demanded for a transfer fee.

“But that’s entirely normal in this type of situation.”

Titchiner, who turned 21 last week, scored 39 goals for Witton last season to help the club win promotion, via the play-offs, back to the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League’s top tier.

However the former Crewe junior joined Fleetwood on a free transfer after his contract at Wincham Park expired.

“I don’t think anybody can say he owes us anything,” said Pritchard.

“He had the courtesy to call a meeting to tell me face-to-face what he planned to do, which is something I respect and is an indication of the type of person he is.”

The Witton manager told fans that the team had scored more than 70 goals last term even without Titchiner’s contribution.

Front men Chris Gahgan, Liam Newman and Ashley Stott – as well as assistant manager Mike Moseley – will report back for pre-season training next week.

Pritchard, who counts attacking midfielder Joe Shaw as his solitary new recruit to date this summer, says he hopes to add others.

“I’ve spoken to close to 40 players since the end of last season,” he said.

“It’s a crazy time of year; there are players who want to wait before making a decision, while others seem to think there is more money to be earned at this level than is reality.

“We’re working flat out though and, if there’s a player out there who we feel can improve upon what we have , then we’ll do our best to sign him.”

He said that, Titchiner aside, every member of last season’s squad has been invited to return for next term.

Pre-season training starts on Saturday, June 30, with the first friendly – at North West Counties League Premier Division neighbours Runcorn Linnets – scheduled for a fortnight later.