Goalkeeper Jim Atkinson has left Workington Reds to join Lowland League club Gretna 2008.
Regarded as one of the best keepers in the NPL, Atkinson’s distribution and general ability on the ball made him ideal for the way Danny Grainger wanted to play his football.
Reds manager Mark Fell said that Atkinson had received “a better offer” to join Gretna and that was the reason he was going to leave after being Workington number one for four years.
He went on: “Jim has been a good servant for Workington and we wish him well in the future. There are no hard feelings about him leaving.
“Subsequently we have been talking to an experienced goalkeeper and I hope that we can get that over the line this week-end,
“We have agreed verbally with Danny Eccles to continue so hopefully that will be the keeping position sorted.
“Brad Hubbold and Greg McCarragher have also agreed verbally for next season but Fin Wallbanks is unlikely to re-join because of a change in his work arrangements.
“We have about six prospective signings which are moving nearer and also have players who are ging on trial with full-time clubs but will come to us if it doesn’t work out for them.”
Mark also told Cumbria Crack’s John Walsh how he was feeling a lot happier this week with the business he had carried out, and the ones that were in the offing.
Hear what he had to say below:
Announcing the signing, Gretna manager Vinnie Parker said: “Jim has a fantastic reputation as one of the very best goalkeepers in the area. His incredible distribution skills, wealth of experience in the game and outstanding leadership skills makes him a very exciting addition to the club”.
Director of Football, Nikki White added, “We are delighted to finally get Jim signed up after a few weeks of discussions. It was quite apparent that after using eight goalkeepers last season that it was vital we got the position nailed down, and there isn’t any better around in this area than Jim.
“He and his family are no strangers to Raydale and it will be great to see them all again. After five seasons at Workington it’s great that he’s up for a new challenge.”
