Berkeley quits Reds for Droylsden

By Martin Morgan

Last updated 09:03, Wednesday, 25 June 2008

Striker Matthew Berkeley says he is hoping to help fire Droylsden to Blue Square North title glory following his switch from Workington Reds.

Matthew Berkeley in action

The 20-year-old netted 11 times in 27 matches for Reds last term, in his second spell at Borough Park. But he revealed the chance of moving closer to his Manchester home had appealed.

He said: “Next year Droylsden will be contenders to win it. It’s a new challenge. The way they sold the club to me was really interesting, and hopefully I can help them be champions.”

Boss Darren Edmondson had been keen to retain Berkeley, who joined Reds for a second time in October last year.

And the striker revealed he will look back fondly at his spell at Workington.

He added: “People at the club were so friendly and made me so welcome. I’d never say a bad thing about the club. I enjoyed it there, but it was time to move on. If they sign a few more players, they’ll be a good side.”

Berkeley launched his career with Gretna, switching to Borough Park in 2006, playing nine games before being recalled.

He later had a brief stint at Blue Square Premier Altrincham, rejoining Reds last term.

A potential replacement is former Gretna youngster Lee Novak, who was Newcastle Blue Star’s top scorer last term with 22 goals.

And Reds can still call on Jonny Wright, last season’s top scorer with 14 goals, and Michael Reed, who netted 11 times despite long spells on the sidelines due to injuries.

Reds director Alec Graham said he understood travelling had become an issue for Berkeley.