WITTON are to take Adam Parkhouse on loan from higher-ranked Stalybridge Celtic for a month.

The Australian-born forward, signed by the Skrill North club at the start of the year, has made only two substitute appearances to date this season.

After training twice with his new teammates this week, the 20-year-old is expected to make his debut in this afternoon’s Evo-Stik Northern Premier League encounter with Grantham Town.

“He’s a lively lad who will give us a much-needed bit of pace in the final third of the pitch,” said Albion boss Brian Pritchard.

“We like what we’ve seen so far, and I’m looking forward to seeing him play for us.”

With Kyle Wilson nursing a calf injury, Parkhouse could feature in Witton’s attack along with Neville Thompson against the Gingerbreads.

Albion have also signed former Port Vale youth and reserve team regular Josh Crofts following his release by their FA Trophy conquerors Leek Town.

The teenage midfielder will likely feature for the first time in Tuesday’s Cheshire FA Senior Cup preliminary round tie at Stockport County.

Meanwhile winger Matthew Purcell has left Wincham Park to join Division One North club Salford City.

He made only two league starts in Witton’s red and white following a summer switch from Curzon Ashton.