Colclough adds to Spireites pool

By Neil Harvey

CHESTERFIELD have been able to dip into their FA Cup kitty to snap up wonder winger Ryan Colclough from Altrincham.

The Spireites triggered a buy-out clause in the 28-year-old’s contract to lure him to their title challenge.

While he is cup tied for Tuesday night’s replay with West Brom, his arrival is a major boost to their promotion bid.

Colclough has established himself as one of Non-League football‘s top performers over the last two seasons with Phil Parkinson’s Altrincham.

Now he has linked up once again with his former Wigan boss Paul Cook and has set his sights on success at the Technique Stadium.

“It’s an amazing feeling. It’s a massive club with a big fan base,” said Col- clough, who penned an 18-month contract with the Spireites for an undisclosed fee.

“I know the gaffer well and the lads seem like a great group. I’m really excited to get going.”

Alty say they were reluctant to let their star man leave but have promised to reinvest the money in their own squad.

Colclough thanked Altrincham boss Phil Parkinson for helping him to revive his career and added: “All the blood, sweat and tears put in behind the scenes by multiple members of the club who go above and beyond for the cause have been an honour to play under, along with all of my team-mates; it’s been one of the best groups I’ve worked with.

“I also want to say how grateful I am to the fans who have shown me great support from day one.

“And, lastly, the gaffer who gave me this opportunity when no-one else would. He believed in me and gave me the support I needed – he always took time out to help me, and I know he will bring the club great success and progression.”

Although little consolation, another boost for Cook’s side ahead of their trip to the Hawthorns came with the news Baggies ace Brandon Thomas-Asante will miss the replay after being slapped with a three-gam retrospective ban.

The officials missed a clash between the striker and Chesterfield’s Jeff King during the first game before he went onto grab a late equaliser in the 3-3 thriller.