WITTON Albion manager Jon Macken has made it clear: “We need to improve.”

And he is bringing in fresh faces to make it happen.

His side lost their way in a 2-1 home loss to Clitheroe at the weekend, after having led at half-time thanks to a strong first-half showing.

New signings Harry Brazel (midfielder, Bury FC) and Tom Hoyle (centre half, Fleetwood Town, loan) made their debuts.

But Saturday’s frustrating outcome followed hot on the heels of a woeful 4-1 loss at Prescot Cables.

Now they are preparing to visit Northern Premier League West leaders Kidsgrove Athletic.

“We needed a little bit more energy in midfield, which Harry gave us a little bit of, while Tom did well in the second half,” said Macken after Saturday’s game.

“We’re looking to improve, but I just don’t want to be in a situation where we’re bringing people in for bringing in’s sake and being in the same position in a month’s time.

“I want to really do my research and bring in the right type of player and the right type of character.

“Like I said to the players in the changing room, we need to improve.”

Macken has further added to his squad in the shape of midfielder John Pritchard from Stalybridge Celtic, signed on dual registration with Glossop North End.

Striker Joe Duckworth has left the club to join Bury FC.

Meanwhile, Winsford United exited the Macron Cup on Tuesday night with a 1-0 home defeat to Chadderton, who play in a division above.

Blues hit the woodwork twice, keeper Jerry Legrand-Akpo saved a 65th-minute Chadderton penalty and Tom Murray was sent off in the 88th minute, but James Purfield’s 50th-minute goal from a corner proved to be the difference between the teams.

This week’s fixtures:

Saturday: FA Vase: Bishop Auckland v Northwich Victoria.

NPL West: 1874 v Widnes, Kidsgrove v Witton.

NWCFL Div One Sth: Winsford v New Mills, Stafford Town v Barnton.