Key Stats

Performance Summary

Ben is a vastly experienced goalkeeper with strong shot-stopping qualities and a commanding physical presence. At 1.96m he gives the back line real height and authority, and his match reports point to a keeper who makes important saves under pressure.

His individual quality has been recognised along the way. He was named NWCFL Goalkeeper of the Month during his Skelmersdale United spell after a run of Man of the Match displays. For AFC Liverpool he made key saves in tight games, including great stops in a 1–0 win over Chadderton and a saved penalty against Burscough, and produced a tremendous reaction save in the 2026 Macron Cup Final.

Playing History

Marine, Prescot Cables & Skelmersdale United — Ben came through Marine's youth setup and built his experience across the North West non-league game, with spells including Prescot Cables and Skelmersdale United, where he was named NWCFL Goalkeeper of the Month in August 2024.

Burscough FC — Ben was a regular for Burscough in 2024/25, making 33 Premier Division appearances and keeping 7 clean sheets, with further cup appearances.

AFC Liverpool — He joined AFC Liverpool in September 2025 and enjoyed a strong campaign, making 36 Premier Division appearances with 8 clean sheets and helping the club win the Macron Cup for the first time in their history.

Return to Burscough — Ben is now back at the Community Ground, starting both of Burscough's opening wins of the 2026/27 season.

Profile

Ben Barnes, known as "Big Ben", is an experienced goalkeeper who returns to Burscough FC bringing size, shot-stopping ability and genuine senior presence. Standing 1.96m, he gives the team height, authority and a reassuring last line of defence.

Ben has proven North West Counties experience with Burscough, Skelmersdale United and AFC Liverpool, and has produced standout performances in difficult games. His record includes Goalkeeper of the Month recognition, multiple Premier Division clean sheets and a Macron Cup-winning campaign with AFC Liverpool in 2025/26. His experience and leadership make him a valuable presence in the Burscough squad.

Key Stats

Performance Summary

Daniel is a young, technical central midfielder who arrives with senior experience already behind him. Comfortable as a number eight, he links midfield to attack, plays forward and carries a genuine goal threat from deeper areas.

His AFC Liverpool spell showed a player trusted in central midfield, dictating tempo and creating chances, with match reports describing him bossing games in the middle of the park. Public records also credit him with goals against Glossop North End, South Liverpool and Stockport Town.

Playing History

Port Vale — Daniel came through the professional academy at Port Vale, making his senior competitive debut in the EFL Trophy away at Wrexham in November 2023, coming on for Ryan Loft.

AFC Liverpool — He built his non-league experience at AFC Liverpool in the North West Counties Premier Division, used regularly in central midfield and wearing the number eight shirt, chipping in with goals in league and cup.

Burscough FC — Daniel joined the Linnets in June 2026, bringing academy grounding and proven NWCFL experience to strengthen the middle of the park for the 2026/27 season.

Profile

Daniel Mahaffy is one of the club's exciting summer additions, a midfielder who combines a professional academy background with senior North West Counties experience at AFC Liverpool. A former Port Vale academy player, Daniel made his senior debut in the EFL Trophy against Wrexham before establishing himself in NWCFL Premier Division football.

A creative number eight with energy and an eye for goal, he can dictate play, drive forward and arrive in scoring areas. At just twenty, he gives Burscough both proven experience and clear development potential as the Linnets build for the new campaign.

Key Stats

Performance Summary

Caleb's strongest profile is as a direct, attacking wide player who contributes goals, set pieces and match-winning moments. AFC Liverpool's own match report said his late corner against FC Isle of Man secured a 2–1 win and showed his set-piece quality.

He has also shown the ability to score from open play and create chances. In AFC Liverpool's 3–0 win over Longridge, he scored after beating his man and finishing through the goalkeeper, then assisted Liam Paton with a cross before half-time. AFC Liverpool's Macron Cup run also highlights his cup impact: he scored against Maghull and then hit a brace in the quarter-final win over Euxton Villa.

Playing History

AFC Liverpool — Caleb was a standout AFC Liverpool player across the 2024/25 and 2025/26 NWCFL Premier Division seasons. During 2024/25 he was identified as the side's obvious danger man, top-scoring and collecting the most Man of the Match awards in the division.

Burscough FC — Burscough announced him as a new signing from AFC Liverpool in May 2026, adding a proven attacking player from within the same division.

Profile

Caleb Jones joins Burscough Football Club from AFC Liverpool, bringing proven North West Counties Premier Division quality to the squad. A direct and dangerous attacking player, Caleb has built a reputation as a consistent goal threat, capable of producing big moments from open play and set pieces.

During his time with AFC Liverpool, Caleb was recognised as one of the standout performers in the division, winning the 2024/25 Premier Division Player of the Year award based on his Man of the Match performances. He followed that with another strong campaign in 2025/26, recording 25 goals in all competitions and 12 Man of the Match awards.

Comfortable operating in wide attacking areas, Caleb brings pace, creativity, set-piece quality and end product to Burscough as the club continues to strengthen ahead of the new season.

Key Stats

Performance Summary

Stephen Rigby gives Burscough a very valuable non-league profile: experience, versatility, set-piece reliability and goal output from deeper areas. His 2024/25 return of 15 league goals from 28 Premier Division appearances is excellent for a player listed in defensive and midfield areas — it points to a player heavily involved in attacking transitions, penalty situations and late runs into the box. (His 2024/25 Premier Division record also shows 3 yellow cards and no reds.)

He can be used in more than one role: left-sided defensive areas, midfield, or a more advanced wide / utility role depending on the game.

Verified 2025/26 goals (at least 9):

• Burscough 3–0 Litherland REMYCA — scored (45+3 pen)
• Burscough 4–2 MSB Woolton — scored (45 pen)
• South Liverpool 0–3 Burscough — scored twice (15 pen, 30)
• Burscough 3–0 Euxton Villa — scored (8 pen)
• Pilkington 2–6 Burscough — scored (43)
• Burscough 5–2 South Liverpool — scored (47)
• City of Liverpool 1–7 Burscough — scored (89)
• Glossop North End 2–2 Burscough — scored (63)

The pattern shows he is not just a penalty taker — he arrives in attacking areas and scores from open play in key moments.

Playing History

Stephen's early pathway is publicly linked to Marine FC, before joining St Helens Town in 2015 — where he reportedly made 90 appearances and scored 16 goals over two seasons, and in 2016/17 was named first-team captain, player of the year, young player of the year and under-21 player of the year.

Previous clubs also include Clitheroe, Stalybridge Celtic, City of Liverpool, Skelmersdale United, Droylsden, Ashton United and 1874 Northwich, before Burscough. (Exact order varies across public sources.)

Profile

Stephen Rigby is an experienced and versatile Burscough FC player, capable of operating across defensive and midfield areas. Known as "Riggers", he brings a strong non-league pedigree, leadership qualities and an excellent attacking return from deeper positions.

During the 2024/25 season, Stephen recorded an outstanding return of 15 league goals from 28 Premier Division appearances for Burscough, with 16 goals in all competitions on his NWCFL player profile. His contribution continued into 2025/26, where he produced important goals in league and cup fixtures, including a brace away at South Liverpool and goals against Litherland REMYCA, Euxton Villa, Pilkington, City of Liverpool and Glossop North End.

With experience across the North West non-league game, Stephen adds reliability, versatility and goal threat to the Burscough squad. His ability to contribute defensively while also stepping up in attacking moments makes him a valuable part of the team at North West Counties Premier Division level.

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Performance Summary

Owen is best described as a reliable, experienced defensive leader. AFC Liverpool referred to him as their vice-captain, and he acted as captain when Adam Moorcroft was unavailable. His value is in consistency, organisation and defensive responsibility — in the FA Cup replay against Abbey Hey, AFC Liverpool's report said the defence was "marshalled well by Owen Fisher-Jones".

He is also comfortable on the ball from deeper areas: match reports show him breaking forward against FC Isle of Man, playing a key pass into Elliot Taylor against City of Liverpool, and finding Caleb Jones in the build-up to a goal at Chadderton. His one league goal in 2025/26 was a big one — a stoppage-time penalty equaliser in a 2–2 draw with Cheadle Town.

His 2025/26 discipline record: 4 Premier Division yellows, 1 sin bin, 2 FA Vase yellows, 1 Macron Cup yellow, and no red cards.

Playing History

Burscough (youth & first team) — Owen came through the Burscough pathway and made his senior debut for the club at just 17, in a major FA Cup tie against Macclesfield in front of around 3,000 supporters. His return is a great story: a former youth player coming back with senior NWCFL experience.

AFC Liverpool — Owen became a key player for AFC Liverpool, featuring heavily across 2025/26 with 57 appearances in all competitions (including 45 in the Premier Division). AFC Liverpool positioned him as a leadership figure, referring to him as vice-captain.

Burscough FC — His June 2026 return gives the club defensive experience, leadership qualities and a genuine connection to the club's youth pathway.

Profile

Owen Fisher-Jones returns to Burscough Football Club from AFC Liverpool, bringing proven North West Counties Premier Division experience back to the Community Ground. A former Burscough youth player, Owen made his senior debut for the Linnets at just 17 years old in an FA Cup tie against Macclesfield, and now returns with valuable first-team experience and leadership qualities and first team captaincy.

During the 2025/26 season with AFC Liverpool, Owen was a regular and reliable presence, making 57 appearances across all competitions, including 45 in the NWCFL Premier Division. A strong defensive organiser, he contributed to 10 league clean sheets and was recognised as a leadership figure within the AFC Liverpool squad.

A composed defender who can organise, lead and build play from the back, Owen adds experience, consistency and a strong connection to the club's pathway as Burscough continue to strengthen ahead of the new campaign.

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Performance Summary

Harry's strongest profile is as an attacking full-back. He is listed as a right-back who can also play left-back, and regularly wore the number 2 shirt for AFC Liverpool.

He is not a high-scoring defender, but he contributes in forward areas — AFC Liverpool reported that he "continued to get forward" in the FA Cup replay win over Abbey Hey, and Adam Moorcroft almost got on the end of a Harry Wright-Ocana cross against Cheadle Town. He is comfortable playing longer passes from deep too, with AFC Liverpool praising "another fine game at right-back" against South Liverpool, where he found Elliot Taylor with a long pass.

Defensively he was part of a back line that "calmly dealt with" Longridge Town's threat in a 3–0 win, alongside Owen Fisher-Jones, Adam Sudworth and Tom Beckett. His verified 2025/26 league goal came in a 5–1 win over FC Isle of Man on 16 September 2025 (72nd minute).

Playing History

Everton & Fleetwood Town (youth) — Public databases link Harry with Everton U18 and Fleetwood Town U21, including a listed Fleetwood Under-21s appearance against Swansea City in April 2024.

FC St Helens — NWCFL line-up data confirms Harry featured for FC St Helens, including a start against Charnock Richard.

AFC Liverpool — Harry joined AFC Liverpool mid-way through 2024/25, making 25 appearances, before returning for 2025/26 where he made 38 listed appearances across league and cup and scored once from right-back.

Burscough FC — Harry joins Burscough with NWCFL Premier Division experience, an academy background and a versatile full-back profile that fits a squad being strengthened with proven AFC Liverpool players.

Profile

Harry Wright-Ocana joins Burscough Football Club from AFC Liverpool, adding a young, athletic and experienced full-back to the Linnets squad.

A right-back who can also operate across the defensive line, Harry brings North West Counties Premier Division experience, having featured regularly for AFC Liverpool during the 2025/26 season. Across the campaign he made 38 publicly listed appearances in league and cup competitions, including 28 in the Premier Division, and scored in AFC Liverpool's 5–1 win over FC Isle of Man.

Harry's game is built around energy, defensive discipline and support in attacking areas. Match reports from his time at AFC Liverpool highlight his willingness to get forward, deliver from wide areas and contribute to build-up play from full-back. He also brings a strong development background, with public records linking him to Everton youth and Fleetwood Town U21 before establishing himself in senior non-league football.

His arrival gives Burscough another player with proven experience at this level, while also adding youth, versatility and competition across the defensive positions.

Key Stats

Performance Summary

Nathan's strongest profile is as an athletic, modern left-back. He gives Burscough balance on the left, defensive energy and the ability to support attacks from wide areas.

AFC Liverpool match reports show him contributing in possession and attacking phases — against FC Isle of Man he played a "fine through ball" to Elliot Taylor for the opener in a 2–1 win, and against Prestwich Heys he crossed into the box shortly after half-time. The FA Cup replay report against Abbey Hey noted that both Harry Wright-Ocana and Nathan Giblin "continued to get forward" to support attacks.

He also has attacking set-piece quality: in AFC Liverpool's late win over Irlam, Nathan delivered towards the far post in the build-up to Bobby Murphy's 94th-minute winner. He scored for AFC Liverpool in a 4–5 win at Charnock Richard (Sep 2024) and again in a 2–1 win over Burscough in March 2026.

Playing History

Liverpool Academy (U18 / U21) — Nathan came through the Liverpool pathway and is a former England U16 international (one cap) before moving into senior non-league football.

AFC Liverpool — Nathan joined AFC Liverpool in summer 2024, becoming a regular for the Non-League Reds with 50 appearances in his first season before continuing into 2025/26.

Burscough FC — Burscough announced Nathan in June 2026, describing him as one of Phil Stafford's cup-winning squad from the previous season and a player who brings "style" to the side.

Profile

Nathan Giblin joins Burscough Football Club from AFC Liverpool, adding a talented young left-back with Liverpool academy pedigree and proven North West Counties Premier Division experience to the Linnets squad.

A former Liverpool youth player and England U16 international, Nathan brings excellent technical quality, athleticism and balance on the left side. During his time with AFC Liverpool he became a regular first-team player, making 50 appearances in his first season before continuing to feature heavily during the 2025/26 campaign.

Comfortable defending one-v-one and supporting attacks from wide areas, Nathan has shown his ability to contribute in possession, deliver into dangerous areas and impact games in key moments. His arrival gives Burscough another player with strong development pedigree, senior non-league experience and the quality to compete at NWCFL Premier Division level.

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Performance Summary

James is an experienced senior defender and organiser. The clearest evidence is his captaincy at Burscough, his previous captaincy and long service at Prescot Cables, and the fact he had already reached 200 Prescot appearances by 2015.

His goal output shows he is also a set-piece threat from defence — three confirmed league goals in 2024/25 and one in 2023/24 is a useful attacking return for a defender at this level, typically from corners, second balls and far-post situations.

In profile: an experienced, right-footed defensive leader and current Burscough captain — strong non-league pedigree, a reliable organiser, and a genuine set-piece goal threat.

Playing History

Prescot Cables — The clearest historic record: James joined Prescot in 2008, became captain, and reached his 200th appearance in April 2015, described at the time as the club's longest-serving player.

Widnes FC — Public references also link him with Widnes after Prescot (exact dates best confirmed directly with the club).

Burscough FC — James is a senior leader in the current squad, listed as a first-team defender and captain.

Profile

James McCulloch, known as "Kirky", is an experienced defender for Burscough FC in the North West Counties Football League Premier Division. A senior leader within the squad, James brings significant non-league experience, including a long spell with Prescot Cables where he served as captain and reached 200 appearances by 2015.

Now with Burscough, he provides leadership, defensive organisation and a set-piece goal threat, with confirmed league goals for the club across the 2023/24 and 2024/25 seasons.

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Performance Summary

Deacon is a young, versatile attacking player who can operate through midfield or in forward areas. Transfermarkt lists him as a centre-forward while Sofascore and Soccerbase list him as a midfielder — a sign of a player used flexibly across attacking roles.

For AFC Liverpool he showed attacking threat in several reports: he scored against Runcorn Town in the Liverpool Senior Cup, went close from the edge of the box against Glossop North End, and hit the post from the right side of the area against Longridge Town.

In profile: direct, forward-thinking and technically capable — willing to shoot from range and comfortable arriving in attacking areas.

Playing History

Burscough (youth) — Deacon is a product of the Burscough youth system; the club's June 2026 announcement welcomed him back as a "massive product" of their academy.

Warrington Town — Before AFC Liverpool, Deacon was with Warrington Town, where Soccerbase lists a senior league appearance and he was named in a Cheshire Senior Cup tie at Cheadle Town in January 2024.

AFC Liverpool — Deacon then played for AFC Liverpool in the NWCFL Premier Division, featuring in competitive matches during 2025/26 and used flexibly (listed at No. 2 against Charnock Richard and No. 6 against Runcorn Town).

Burscough FC — His June 2026 return is another former youth player coming home with senior experience — the pathway coming full circle.

Profile

Deacon Smalley is a young, talented attacking player who returns to Burscough FC after playing senior football with AFC Liverpool in the North West Counties Football League Premier Division. A former Burscough youth player, Deacon has also been involved with Warrington Town, gaining experience in a higher-level senior environment before continuing his development in the NWCFL.

Comfortable in midfield or forward areas, he brings energy, technical ability and attacking threat, with public match records showing him scoring for AFC Liverpool in the Liverpool Senior Cup and regularly getting into dangerous positions.

His return to Burscough represents another exciting example of the club's youth pathway coming full circle.

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Performance Summary

Anthony is a versatile and experienced NWCFL-level player. His position varies across Burscough's own pages — forward, midfielder and defender are all listed in different places — but his match usage points to a flexible player used across wide, midfield and attacking areas rather than fixed to one role.

His goal record shows he contributes in attacking moments, arriving into scoring areas. He scored several times for Lower Breck across 2023/24 and also found the net for Burscough, including strikes against Cheadle Town and Droylsden.

In profile: a versatile, experienced player who offers work-rate, flexibility and attacking threat — able to start (often at No. 8) or impact games from the bench, giving Burscough useful squad depth and tactical options.

Playing History

Lower Breck — Public NWCFL records show Anthony scoring for Lower Breck during the 2023/24 Premier Division season, including goals against Colne, Bury, West Didsbury & Chorlton and Squires Gate.

Burscough FC — Anthony appears in Burscough line-ups across the 2024/25 and 2025/26 seasons, as both a starter and a substitute, and Burscough's own player profile lists him as a forward.

Retained — Burscough publicly announced him as retained in July 2025, a sign he is part of the club's ongoing first-team plans.

Profile

Anthony Walsh is a versatile first-team player for Burscough FC in the North West Counties Football League Premier Division. Capable of operating across midfield and forward areas, Anthony brings experience, work-rate and attacking threat to the squad.

Public NWCFL records show him scoring for Lower Breck during the 2023/24 season before later contributing goals for Burscough, including strikes against Cheadle Town and Droylsden.

Retained by the club and involved across multiple seasons, Anthony gives Burscough valuable flexibility — offering options as both a starter and an impact player from the bench.

Key Stats

Performance Summary

Tom is a modern, flexible wide player rather than someone locked to one position. A Trafford profile listed him across LW, RW, CAM, LB and RB — a winger, attacking midfielder, wing-back or full-back depending on the system.

For AFC Liverpool the NWCFL page shows 26 Premier Division appearances, 4 goals and 6 clean sheets, and the club described him as part of a "formidable left side". His goal record shows he can arrive in scoring positions — including two against Burscough in October 2024 — and a late winner off the bench (87') against Burscough in March 2026 shows he can influence tight games.

In profile: versatile across both flanks and the full-back / wing-back roles — flexibility, energy and attacking output from wide areas.

Playing History

Stockport County — Listed among Tom's previous clubs in programme notes (a development spell).

Ashton Athletic — NWCFL records show Tom registered with Ashton Athletic in August 2022, including a goal against Northwich Victoria.

Pilkington — He later scored for Pilkington against Glossop North End and in the Liverpool Senior Cup against Skelmersdale United.

Trafford — Signed for Trafford in November 2023, listed as a highly versatile wide / midfield / full-back option.

AFC Liverpool — Tom became part of AFC Liverpool's squad across 2024/25 and 2025/26, contributing goals and clean sheets from the left side.

Burscough FC — Tom joined Burscough in June 2026 from AFC Liverpool — a player who has already scored against the Linnets.

Profile

Tom Beckett is a versatile wide player who joins Burscough FC from AFC Liverpool ahead of the 2026/27 season. Capable of playing on either wing, as an attacking midfielder or in full-back areas, Tom brings flexibility, pace and attacking threat to the squad.

Public NWCFL records show him scoring for Ashton Athletic, Pilkington and AFC Liverpool, including a double against Burscough in October 2024 and a late winner against Burscough in March 2026.

Having been part of a strong left-sided unit at AFC Liverpool, Tom adds proven NWCFL Premier Division experience and gives Burscough another dynamic option in wide and attacking areas.

Key Stats

Performance Summary

Cameron profiles as a technically capable central midfielder with a strong attacking edge. He is not just a holding player — public sources list him as a central midfielder who can also play attacking midfield and centre-forward, suggesting he can operate between the lines, arrive in the box and contribute in the final third.

His Morecambe debut is the standout indicator of his quality: scoring and assisting on a senior debut in the EFL Trophy against Barrow — threading the ball through for the opener, then finishing from close range before the hour. For AFC Liverpool, goals against Glossop North End, Barnoldswick Town and West Didsbury & Chorlton show he kept contributing attacking output at NWCFL Premier level.

In profile: a right-footed midfielder with professional academy grounding, senior experience and clear attacking instincts — technical quality, energy and goal threat from midfield.

Playing History

Morecambe FC (academy & first team) — Cameron came through the Morecambe academy and made his senior debut in the EFL Trophy against Barrow (10 Oct 2023), scoring and assisting in a 3–1 win.

Loan spells — He gained experience on loan at Nantwich Town, Runcorn Linnets and Lower Breck.

Warrington Rylands & AFC Liverpool — After a spell listed at Warrington Rylands, Cameron joined AFC Liverpool in November 2024, featuring regularly in the NWCFL Premier Division and scoring across 2024/25 and 2025/26.

Burscough FC — Cameron joined Burscough in June 2026 from AFC Liverpool.

Profile

Cameron Rooney is a talented right-footed midfielder who joins Burscough FC from AFC Liverpool ahead of the 2026/27 North West Counties Football League Premier Division season. A former Morecambe academy player, Cameron has already gained senior experience in a professional environment, scoring and assisting on his Morecambe first-team debut in the EFL Trophy against Barrow.

He has also developed through loan spells with Nantwich Town, Runcorn Linnets and Lower Breck before gaining further NWCFL experience with AFC Liverpool.

Comfortable as a central midfielder, attacking midfielder or advanced forward option, Cameron brings technical ability, energy and goal threat to Burscough's midfield.

Key Stats

Performance Summary

Andrew profiles as a high-energy midfielder who can operate centrally or in advanced midfield areas. The clearest style description comes from Pilkington, who called him "a talented player on the ball" who brings "energy and tenacity to the engine room in midfield" when announcing his signing.

His AFC Liverpool usage supports that. He was listed at No. 8 against Chadderton and No. 10 against Burscough and Litherland REMYCA, suggesting he can play as a box-to-box midfielder or attacking midfielder depending on the team shape.

His goal record shows he is not just a defensive worker: he scored for Pilkington in league games, produced a dramatic 97th-minute FA Cup equaliser against Longridge Town (a volley into the top corner from the edge of the box), and added three confirmed league goals for AFC Liverpool in 2025/26.

In profile: an energetic, technically capable No. 8 or No. 10 who offers intensity, pressing, forward running and a proven attacking contribution from central areas.

Playing History

Pilkington — Andrew played for Pilkington during 2024/25, scoring in league and cup — including goals against Abbey Hey, FC Isle of Man, South Liverpool and Staveley Miners Welfare. He was still with Pilkington at the start of 2025/26, scoring a dramatic 97th-minute FA Cup equaliser against Longridge Town.

AFC Liverpool — Andrew has had more than one spell with AFC Liverpool. Public NWCFL records list him in AFC Liverpool line-ups in both earlier and 2025/26 records, used in central and advanced midfield roles (No. 8 and No. 10). AFC Liverpool announced his return from Pilkington, describing him as a dependable midfielder with endless work-rate, composure and energy.

Burscough FC — Andrew joined Burscough in June 2026 from AFC Liverpool, arriving with recent NWCFL Premier Division experience and a proven midfield goal contribution.

Profile

Andrew Starkey is an energetic and technically capable midfielder who joins Burscough FC from AFC Liverpool ahead of the 2026/27 North West Counties Football League Premier Division season. A hardworking midfield player with previous experience at AFC Liverpool and Pilkington, Andrew brings composure on the ball, tenacity and attacking threat from central areas.

Public records show him scoring for Pilkington in league and cup competition before returning to AFC Liverpool, where he added further NWCFL Premier Division goals during the 2025/26 campaign. Comfortable operating as a No. 8 or No. 10, Andrew gives Burscough extra energy, work-rate and goal contribution in midfield.

Key Stats

Performance Summary

Matty profiles as a highly versatile, dependable player. AFC Liverpool's own article said he had "played in most positions" for the club, and Brown himself said he was happy to play anywhere apart from goalkeeper. NWCFL line-ups back this up — he has been used in different roles, wearing No. 4, No. 5 and No. 10.

The evidence points to a player who can be trusted defensively but also contribute going forward. His NWCFL clean-sheet numbers show regular defensive involvement, while confirmed goals against Northwich Victoria, Cheadle Town, FC St Helens, South Liverpool, Irlam and Abbey Hey show he can also be a threat in attacking areas.

Confirmed goals for AFC Liverpool:

• 19 Dec 2023 — AFC Liverpool 2–1 Wythenshawe (68')
• 24 Mar 2024 — AFC Liverpool 3–5 Squires Gate (27')
• 23 Aug 2024 — AFC Liverpool 3–1 Northwich Victoria (8')
• 31 Aug 2024 — Cheadle Town 0–3 AFC Liverpool (21')
• 3 Sep 2024 — AFC Liverpool 1–2 FC St Helens (68')
• 1 Oct 2024 — AFC Liverpool 3–0 South Liverpool (42')
• 15 Feb 2025 — Irlam 2–1 AFC Liverpool (49')
• 6 Dec 2025 — AFC Liverpool 3–0 Abbey Hey (25')

In profile: a reliable, adaptable squad leader who can cover multiple positions, compete physically and contribute at both ends of the pitch.

Playing History

AFC Liverpool (pathway & first team) — Matty came through AFC Liverpool's reserves and youth pathway before establishing himself in the first team. In October 2024, AFC Liverpool announced he had signed a contract after reaching his 50th appearance, describing him as a "vital player" for the Non-League Reds who had shown a "fantastic level of consistency" — standing on 53 appearances and 6 goals at that point. His 50th game came in an FA Vase tie away at Winsford.

He remained heavily involved in 2025/26, making 42 Premier Division appearances plus cup football across the FA Cup, FA Vase, Macron Cup and Liverpool Senior Cup.

Burscough FC — Burscough announced they were "absolutely delighted" to sign Matty in June 2026, describing him as the club's third contracted signing of the summer.

Profile

Matthew "Matty" Brown is a versatile and experienced player who joins Burscough FC from AFC Liverpool ahead of the 2026/27 North West Counties Football League Premier Division season. A product of the AFC Liverpool pathway, Brown became an established first-team player for the Non-League Reds, reaching over 50 appearances and signing a contract with the club in 2024.

Comfortable across defensive and midfield roles, he brings consistency, adaptability and strong league experience to Burscough. Public NWCFL records show him making 42 Premier Division appearances for AFC Liverpool in 2025/26, contributing to clean sheets and adding goals from both defensive and advanced areas.

Key Stats

Performance Summary

Joel profiles as a direct, skilful winger who can affect games from wide areas. AFC Liverpool described him simply as a "skilful winger", and his match evidence backs that up: he appears regularly as a No. 11, contributes goals, wins penalties, creates chances and provides assists.

His attacking output shows a player who can arrive in scoring positions as well as create for others. He scored against Glossop North End (Dec 2024), struck well with his right foot against Abbey Hey in the FA Cup, and scored against Stockport Town, Euxton Villa and Pilkington in 2025/26 — before playing a decisive creative role in the Macron Cup final, assisting Elliot Taylor's second goal in the 3–1 win over West Didsbury & Chorlton.

Key creative moments: he kept the ball alive and squared it for Elliot Taylor's late winner v Litherland REMYCA (Dec 2024), and at City of Liverpool (Nov 2025) he scored the opener on 11 minutes and was then brought down for the penalty that made it 2–1.

In profile: a wide player who can beat his man, arrive at the back post, press high, win fouls in dangerous areas and contribute with goals and assists.

Playing History

AFC Liverpool U18s / 7 Elite Academy pathway — Joel came through AFC Liverpool's youth pathway. In September 2022 he was named AFC Liverpool Under-18s captain ahead of an FA Youth Cup tie with Wrexham, having scored twice in an 8–4 FA Youth Cup win over Curzon Ashton. He was also selected in a pathway group for a US college showcase.

AFC Liverpool first team — Joel stepped up into the first-team squad, AFC Liverpool noting 27 appearances in his debut season. He featured across 2024/25 and 2025/26 in advanced wide areas (wearing No. 11), and was part of AFC Liverpool's 2025/26 Macron Cup-winning squad, scoring in the run against Cammell Laird 1907 and Nelson.

Burscough FC — Joel joined Burscough in June 2026 from AFC Liverpool, giving the club a young, attack-minded wide player with NWCFL Premier Division and cup-winning experience.

Profile

Joel Skillen is a skilful winger who joins Burscough FC from AFC Liverpool ahead of the 2026/27 North West Counties Football League Premier Division season. A product of the AFC Liverpool Under-18s pathway, Skillen captained the youth side in the FA Youth Cup and later progressed into the Non-League Reds' first-team squad, making 27 appearances in his debut senior season.

A direct wide player with pace, creativity and end product, he has scored in league, FA Cup and Macron Cup competition, while also contributing key assists and attacking moments. Part of AFC Liverpool's 2025/26 Macron Cup-winning squad, Skillen brings Burscough an exciting wide option with proven NWCFL experience and strong development potential.

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Performance Summary

Callum profiles as a proper NWCFL centre-forward: physical, experienced, direct and capable of scoring in different types of games. Wythenshawe's manager described him as a physical player who would be a nuisance to defenders, which matches his goals record and use as a central attacking option.

His Burscough record shows he can score in tight games as well as bigger wins. He scored the only goal in a 1–0 win away at Cheadle Town, scored in wins over Colne, Barnoldswick and Prestwich Heys, and hit doubles against City of Liverpool and Longridge Town. A late-season Longridge Town programme listed him on 16 goals as one of Burscough's leading scorers.

He also offers more than finishing. NWCFL's January 2026 Player of the Month article noted Laird putting Christian Mukoko through for a goal against Pilkington, and Mukoko later setting up Laird against South Liverpool — showing his role in Burscough's attacking combinations, not just as a penalty-box finisher.

In profile: strong enough to occupy defenders and intelligent enough to link play — a central attacking focal point, penalty-box presence and reliable goal threat.

Playing History

Pilkington — Callum was a major attacking player for Pilkington, part of the side that won the 2022/23 NWCFL Division One North title. He scored a hat-trick in the 4–0 title-clinching win at Bacup Borough. He was still with Pilkington in 2023/24, making 21 appearances in all competitions before moving on.

Wythenshawe — Callum joined Wythenshawe from Pilkington in January 2024, described as an experienced forward bringing "experience and quality". He scored for them too, including two goals in a 7–0 win over Longridge Town in February 2024.

Burscough FC — Burscough signed Callum from Wythenshawe Amateurs, and he is now listed under the club's forwards, providing a regular goal threat across 2024/25 and 2025/26.

Profile

Callum Laird is an experienced forward for Burscough FC in the North West Counties Football League Premier Division. Known as "Lairdy", he brings physical presence, goalscoring instinct and proven NWCFL experience to the Burscough attack.

Laird previously played for Pilkington, where he was part of their 2022/23 Division One North title-winning side and scored a hat-trick in the title-clinching win at Bacup Borough. He later joined Wythenshawe before signing for Burscough, where he has continued to provide a regular goal threat. Public records show him scoring important goals across the 2024/25 and 2025/26 seasons, including doubles against City of Liverpool and Longridge Town, making him one of Burscough's key attacking players.

Key Stats

Performance Summary

Matthew profiles as a left-footed attacking player with the flexibility to play through the middle or from the left side. Public position listings — centre-forward, left midfield and left winger — support that versatile attacking profile.

His goal record shows he can contribute in different match situations: a decisive winner in a 1–0 win over Padiham, a brace in a 5–0 away win at AFC Liverpool, a late double in Burscough's 6–2 win at Pilkington, and an early goal in the 4–2 win over Barnoldswick Town.

Match reports also show him regularly involved in attacking moments beyond goals — a Daisy Hill report noted Hamilton having Burscough's best first-half chance after Joshua Quarless set him up in the box, while a Longridge report described him curling an effort towards the top-left corner that forced a fingertip save.

In profile: an experienced, left-footed attacker who offers movement, finishing ability and a consistent threat whether deployed centrally or wide.

Playing History

Earlier career — Public databases link Matthew with AFC Liverpool and Prescot Cables before Burscough, though exact registration dates are best confirmed with the club.

Burscough FC — Matthew joined Burscough in December 2023 and made an immediate impact: he scored the only goal against Padiham on 9 December 2023, then scored twice away at AFC Liverpool three days later in a 5–0 win. He has since featured heavily across league and cup, with a 2025/26 public appearance summary of 39 Premier Division, 5 FA Vase, 4 Macron Cup and 1 FA Cup games — 49 in all.

Profile

Matthew Hamilton is an experienced left-footed attacking player for Burscough FC in the North West Counties Football League Premier Division. Comfortable operating as a centre-forward, left winger or left-sided midfielder, Hamilton gives Burscough flexibility and attacking quality across the front line.

Since joining the club in December 2023, he has contributed important goals in league and cup competition, including decisive strikes in tight games and braces in high-scoring wins. With strong movement, finishing ability and the versatility to play centrally or wide, Hamilton remains an important attacking option within the Burscough first-team squad.

Key Stats

Performance Summary

Danny profiles as an experienced defensive leader. The strongest public description comes from FC United of Manchester, who called him a central defender comfortable at right-back or holding midfield, while also noting his captaincy at Clitheroe and his goal threat from defence.

His Burscough and Bootle records show exactly that type of player: primarily defensive, but capable of contributing important goals. His goals for Burscough against Alsager Town and Irlam, and for Bootle against Barnoldswick, Eccleshall and Warrington Rylands, point to a defender who can attack set plays, arrive in the box and make himself useful in both penalty areas.

In profile: a physically strong, versatile defender who brings leadership, organisation and a genuine set-piece threat — comfortable at centre-back, right-back or in holding midfield.

Playing History

Clitheroe — Danny captained Clitheroe before moving on, an early marker of his leadership.

FC United of Manchester — FC United signed him from Clitheroe as a central defender who could also play right-back or holding midfield; manager Karl Marginson praised his goalscoring record for a centre-back.

Stalybridge Celtic & Burscough — Public records also link him with Stalybridge Celtic, and he had a previous spell at Burscough — featuring in the 2018 Macron Challenge Cup Final against Widnes and wearing central-defensive shirt numbers (No. 4 / No. 5).

Bootle, Sandbach & Runcorn Town — He later scored for Bootle in 2019/20, with public registration records also linking him to Sandbach United and Runcorn Town (best confirmed with the club).

Return to Burscough — Danny has now returned to Burscough after a spell in America — an experienced leader with previous club history coming back into the squad.

Profile

Daniel Brady is an experienced defender who returns to Burscough FC after a spell in America, adding leadership, physicality and proven non-league experience to the squad. A strong and versatile defensive player, Brady is comfortable at centre-back, right-back or holding midfield and has previously represented Burscough, Clitheroe, FC United of Manchester, Stalybridge Celtic and Bootle.

A former Clitheroe captain, he brings organisation, composure and senior presence to the back line, while also offering a set-piece threat from defensive areas. His return gives Burscough an experienced player who knows the club, understands the demands of North West Counties football and can help lead the group on and off the pitch.

Career Record

Managerial Record

Across three seasons at AFC Liverpool, Phil oversaw a major squad rebuild, accumulated 200 NWCFL Premier Division points and 61 league wins, and led the club to its first-ever Macron Challenge Cup — beating West Didsbury & Chorlton 3–1 in the May 2026 final. Earlier he won the 2013/14 West Cheshire League title with Maghull and took Litherland REMYCA to the 2016/17 First Division play-off final, including a 1–0 Liverpool Senior Cup win over Everton.

Playing Career

Phil played at semi-professional level for Bootle, Maghull, Cammell Laird and AFC Liverpool, primarily as a defender and midfielder. A natural leader, he went on to captain AFC Liverpool, giving him first-hand experience of the demands of North West Counties football.

Profile

Phil Stafford joined Burscough Football Club as first-team manager ahead of the 2026/27 season, bringing extensive playing and managerial experience from across the Merseyside and North West non-league game.

He began his managerial career with Maghull, guiding them to the first West Cheshire League title in the club's history, before establishing Litherland REMYCA as genuine promotion contenders. After spells with Bootle and FC Bootle St Edmunds, he returned to AFC Liverpool — a club he had played for and captained — as first-team manager in 2023.

Over three seasons he rebuilt the squad, amassed 200 league points and delivered the club's first-ever Macron Challenge Cup. He now brings that proven record of building competitive teams and delivering historic moments to Burscough, opening the 2026/27 campaign with back-to-back wins and nine goals in his first two matches in charge.

Career Record

Managerial Record

James stepped into management as Barnton's player-manager in 2018, leading a young, developing squad in the NWCFL First Division South. He went on to become Phil Stafford's assistant at AFC Liverpool, where the management team accumulated 200 league points and won the club's first-ever Macron Challenge Cup in May 2026 — the pair reaching 100 competitive games together along the way.

Playing Career

A prolific forward known for his movement, finishing and leadership, James is Runcorn Town's all-time leading goalscorer with 163 goals in 288 appearances. He scored 43 goals in 44 games to help Runcorn win promotion in 2010/11, was named NWCFL Premier Division Player of the Month in August 2011, and topped the division's scoring charts the following season. He also played for Stockport Sports, Bootle, Barnton and Bootle St Edmunds.

Profile

James McShane joins Burscough Football Club as first-team assistant manager, reuniting with Phil Stafford ahead of the 2026/27 season.

One of the North West Counties League's most prolific strikers, James is Runcorn Town's all-time record goalscorer and won promotion and individual honours during his playing days. He moved into coaching as Barnton's player-coach before taking his first managerial role as the club's player-manager.

He later became Stafford's assistant at AFC Liverpool, where together they rebuilt the squad, amassed 200 league points and lifted the club's first Macron Challenge Cup. That blend of goalscoring pedigree, coaching experience and dressing-room leadership now strengthens the Linnets' first-team staff.

Career Record

Playing Career

An experienced, commanding goalkeeper, David played for Runcorn Town, Cammell Laird, Bootle and AFC Liverpool across a long non-league career. Runcorn's records credit him with 11 clean sheets in 29 appearances, and he was known throughout for producing important saves under pressure — including a penalty save in the FA Cup for AFC Liverpool in 2025.

Profile

David Parkinson joins Burscough Football Club as first-team goalkeeper coach, bringing three seasons as an AFC Liverpool goalkeeper and a long career in North West non-league football.

A dependable presence between the posts for Runcorn Town, Cammell Laird, Bootle and AFC Liverpool, David was part of the AFC Liverpool squad that won the club's first-ever Macron Challenge Cup in 2025/26. He moved to Burscough with Phil Stafford's staff ahead of the 2026/27 season.

His role covers goalkeeper handling, positioning, distribution, communication and set-piece organisation — developing the club's senior goalkeepers and bringing valuable continuity to the management team.

Career Record

Profile

David Innelli is an integral member of Burscough's first-team management team, bringing almost 18 years of non-league experience built through a long association with AFC Liverpool.

Working with the club from its formation in 2008, David served as goalkeeper coach, registered staff member and board member — contributing across coaching, club operations, media and the supporter-owned community. He was pictured as goalkeeper coach during AFC Liverpool's back-to-back Club of the Month awards in 2019, hosted the club's Full 90 programme, and organised sponsored walks raising over £2,000 for AFC Liverpool and Liverpool CHICS.

His long service culminated in AFC Liverpool's first-ever Macron Challenge Cup in 2025/26. David joined Burscough with Phil Stafford's staff in summer 2026, bringing continuity, trusted relationships and a deep understanding of the standards set during the AFC Liverpool years.

We could not be more pleased to welcome someone of David's calibre to the club. To have a person so respected, so committed and so genuinely loved across non-league football choose Burscough speaks volumes — and we are truly honoured to have him with us. We cannot wait to see the part he plays in waking the sleeping giant that is Burscough Football Club.