RUNCORN Linnets boss Michael Ellison has strengthened his backroom staff with the appointment of Matt Cross, who returns to the Millbank Linnets Stadium as assistant manager.

He succeeds Stuart Humphreys, who resigned on Tuesday after three and a half years in the post.

Matt originally signed as a player for the Linnets in December 2012, and he scored nine goals in 97 appearances, including a legendary over-head kick at Barnoldswick in 2013.

The spectacular strike went viral on YouTube and earned him the club’s Goal of the Season award.

Ellison said: "Crossy brings with him a wealth of experience, and a great knowledge of teams and players, particularly on the Manchester side of the North West, and I'm delighted he's agreed to join me as my assistant.”

The new assistant, also a set-piece specialist, had most recently been with Padiham, playing against the Linnets in last season’s final game as Runcorn again narrowly missed out on promotion from the North West Counties League to Evostik League Division One.

Matt started his career in the Football League at a young age playing for Barnsley and Hereford United before moving over to Bangor City to play in the Welsh League.

He gained Northern Premier (Evostik) League experience with Trafford, Bamber Bridge, Salford City and Warrington Town and won the First Division North with Witton Albion in the 2011/2012 season.

Manager Ellison has, meanwhile, continued his team building with the signing of 'keeper Jack Cookson, who has appeared in the club’s first two friendly games - starting in goal for Tuesday's 2-2 home draw against Evostik League Premier Division side, Marine.

New-look Runcorn, beaten 3-1 on Saturday at Evostik North One outfit Radcliffe Borough despite an Antony Hickey goal, recovered an early two-goal deficit against Marine courtesy of efforts from Kurt Sherlock and Hickey, either side of half-time.

Cookson joins after being at Chorley. He has also played for Connah's Quay Nomads, Morecambe and Stalybridge Celtic.

He has represented Great Britain at the International Student Games, reaching the final before losing on penalties to France.

A club spokesman said: “We welcome Jack to the club and hope that he enjoys playing for Runcorn Linnets.”