Clitheroe manager Carl Garner is looking forward to being able to choose from a full squad for the first time this season when they face fellow struggler’s Radcliffe Borough on Saturday.

The Blues are without a win in their last 12 games, a run that includes six league fixtures, and currently lie in 19th place in the Evo-Stik League First Division North table but Garner believes his young side’s results do not reflect their performances.

“We’ve been unlucky – particularly over the past few games.,” said Garner.

“We conceded a late goal against Warrington on Saturday and have dominated the last three games but only managed one point from them.”

Garner admits that a lack of experience has played a part in the Shawbridge outfit’s inability to see out games but believes his youngsters will benefit from the return of defenders Kevin Brown and Steve Mercer from injury.

“They are key players for us with plenty of experience,” added the manager.

“Kevin has only played one game all season and they will definitely help out Marlon Broomes at the back.”

The Ribble Valley side have brought back former player and manager Lee Sculpher to the club to work in a shared managerial capacity with Garner. Sculpher was in charge when Clitheroe gained promotion from the North West Counties league in the 2003/04 season.

“Lee will come in and help us out and share the workload. He has a real affinty with the club and had a fantastic record when he was here in the past,”

Having been involved in several cup competitions in recent weeks, Garner stated his desire to focus on climbing the table.

“There are no more cup games left so it’s time to knuckle down and concentrate on the league.

"We have two tough games coming up against sides at either side of the table with Curzon Ashton on Tuesday who are unbeaten in the league.”