WINSFORD United boss Eddy Haslam has set his newly-assembled side a 10-week target to hit title-winning form.

Victory over St Helens at Barton Stadium on Saturday was the Blues’ second of the North West Counties League Premier Division campaign, with a 3-0 defeat to Glossop following an opening day triumph at Wigan Robin Park.

The Formby-based boss insists his players need more time to gel before they can realistically be a force.

“We’ll be challenging soon enough,” he said.

“If we’d had time together before the season started, then we’d be a hell of a squad.

“We can really push on and be a proper unit in the next couple of months, but it’s hard experimenting in competitive matches.

“I’m sure we’ll pick up good results before that, but sometimes as a new side you can be left wanting.”

Haslam is confident of strengthening his squad further with Jack Lane receiving international clearance after a spell playing in the USA.

The defender is currently training at Skrill Premier side Macclesfield Town.

“He’ll make a huge difference because he’s a very talented young player,” said Blues’ manager.

“With first team opportunities limited at Macclesfield it will really aid his development with us this season.”

Stopper Adam Roberts will join from Cheadle Town while ex-Everton trainee, teenager Josh Allen, is recovering from a knee injury.

But the boss is enjoying his new challenge.

“I’m loving it here,” he added.