NEIL Young has further strengthened Altrincham's squad for Saturday's big kick off after landing former Crawley Town number one Callum Preston.

The 20-year old ex-Wales under-19 keeper trained with his new Altrincham team-mates within hours of signing on Tuesday and goes straight into the squad for Saturday's opening National League North game against Darlington at The J.Davidson Stadium (3pm).

Alty boss Young made it clear it would now be a straight fight between Preston and Andy Dawber for the first-team jersey, and said: "There's no number one or number two. The position is up for grabs, and whoever stakes the strongest claim will have it.

"Callum gained plenty of League Two experience with Crawley last season and has been signed to provide extra competition. We've got two good young keepers now."

Judging by his response to being released by Crawley, after 10 League Two appearances last season, Stafford-born Preston expects to edge out Dawber in the battle to be first choice.

"I was told under (previous manager) Mark Yates that I would be getting a new deal, but the new manager (Dermot Drummy) came in, and I didn't fit what he needed," he said.

"It has still been a positive year for me, given the amount of games I've played at my age. I've probably played as many Football League games, if not more, than any other young goalkeeper in the country.

"Now I look forward to seeing what I can get next. I've had about 10 clubs who have got back to me, but it's just seeing what option suits me best, because I want to play games."

In another move that will prove popular with Alty fans, up-and-coming youth team prospect Harry Cain has officially been drafted into the senior squad after impressing during pre-season.

"Harry has signed forms for the first team, and it is well deserved," said Young. "He has done really well, and it just shows what we are trying to do with the younger element here.

"It doesn't matter about age – if they are good enough, they will be given an opportunity."