NEW signing Steven Drench is in line for an Altrincham debut at FC United of Manchester on Saturday and is determined to get a kick out of it in more ways than one.

Snapped up from Bradford (Park Avenue), the experienced keeper is renowned as one of the National League North’s most accomplished shot-stoppers but believes he can make as big an impact with his right boot, as well as his hands.

The 33-year old, who has been on the receiving end of three straight defeats for Bradford against Phil Parkinson’s side this season, explained how he intends to kick-start his Alty career by saying: "One of my strengths is distribution, and the way Altrincham like to play football and build from the back is something I feel really comfortable about.

"But, as I showed in some of my appearances for Guiseley against Altrincham, I can hit it long as well.

"Perhaps I can go a bit more direct at times, look to hit the front man or the wingers to get second counter attacks going.

"Everyone knows Alty are a good footballing side who play the game the right way, and I know better than most how well it works after conceding plenty of goals against them this season through their good play.

"I’m looking forward to being part of it, and I hope I can bring that side of my game to the table and add another dimension to the attacking and defensive side of Alty’s approach.

"I know plenty of lads with Alty connections, like Danny Hall, Nicky Clee and Luca Havern, and they have all said great things about the club, the people in and around it, the ambition everyone has and the fans.

"To be honest, I can’t wait to get started.

"It is a tight league, so anyone who can string a few results together is really going to kick on.

"We’ve got some big games coming up against the likes of Chester, Spennymoor, Blyth and Brackley, and we have to take as many points as possible against teams in and around us."