ALTRINCHAM have launched their preparations for the new season by parading four notable new signings and a youth team graduate who is determined to emulate Duncan Watmore’s stunning impact at the J.Davidson Stadium.

Forwards Kyle Perry and James Walshaw, defender Mike Williams and midfielder Danny Boshell, who has turned last season’s loan into a permanent move, all impressed in Saturday’s unlucky 3-2 defeat by Accrington Stanley and Tuesday night’s 3-1 loss to Tranmere Rovers.

So, too, did England Schools under-18s skipper Rob Gilroy, who found himself pitched into an unexpected first-team debut after only 17 minutes on Saturday and responded with an assured performance against League Two opposition.

The 17-year old from Crosby began to take Alty manager Lee Sinnott’s eye before leading England to the Lloyds TSB Trophy with a 3-1 win over Scotland last season, and he has no qualms about setting his sights high and aiming to follow in Watmore’s illustrious footsteps.

Released by Chester last year, he has responded positively to the promptings of youth team boss George Heslop and is now pressing hard for a place in Sinnott’s squad for the forthcoming campaign.

“I owe George a lot,” he said. “He took a chance on me, after Chester, and he has been brilliant. He knows how to get the best out of players, so much so that the gaffer (Sinnott) said, towards the end of last season, that he was going to take a look at me during the summer, with a view to next season.

“I just want to learn and progress under him and Neil Tolson as much as I can and make the most of this invaluable experience of playing with the seniors.

“My goal is to make it into the professional ranks, and when I look at what Duncan has done, it inspires me. I would like to model myself on him and not only develop along the same lines but try and add some of his qualities to my game. I think I put plenty of desire and energy into games, and I try and keep calm in tight situations, but the way he takes players on is an element I want to work on.”

Alty have a Meet The Players and Management evening at the J.Davidson Stadium on Saturday (7.30pm) and continue their pre-season programme at Trafford on Tuesday (7.45).