ALTRINCHAM manager Phil Parkinson has pulled off a major coup for next season by beating a host of clubs to the signature of James Poole and making the Salford City front-runner one of three new arrivals in as many days.

The recently-appointed Alty boss launched his recruitment drive by snapping up winger John Johnston from Salford and followed up with the capture of Poole and Nantwich’s cultured centre-back Ben Harrison.

One-time Manchester City Academy youngster Poole,aged 27, is the signing that will excite Alty fans most, and he described how decisive action from Parkinson pointed him towards The J.Davidson Stadium.

“The manager got in touch with me as soon as it was announced I was leaving Salford and made me feel really, really wanted here,” he said. “That went a long way towards making my mind up.

“He told me his plans for the club, what his expectations were, what he thought of me as a player and where I would fit into the overall team pattern, and to hear him say all that was really nice.

“It played a huge part in me becoming an Altrincham player.

“He seemed to know my game inside out, which a lot of managers at this level wouldn’t have at their fingertips. He knew all my strengths and what formation would best suit my game, and it was clear his football philosophy is completely in line with mine.

“The confidence he has in himself as a manager, and in the way he sets his team up, was just as impressive.

“It was great to hear someone backing himself like he clearly does.

“It’s fair to say my phone has been busy since the announcement about leaving Salford.

“Quite a few people have made enquiries, and there have been offers, but absolutely no one showed the level of interest or desire to get me to their club as the Altrincham manager did.

“I’ll be aiming for goals and assists next season, and I’m confident I can do that and contribute to a successful campaign for Altrincham.”