RAMSBOTTOM United drew Sheffield FC out of the hat twice as the draws were made for the the FA Cup and FA Trophy this week.

Amazingly, Rammy will host the South Yorkshire side in both competitions.

First up is the preliminary round of the FA Cup on Saturday, August 20, while the preliminary round of the FA Trophy will be played at the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium on Saturday, October 8.

The club's squad continues to take shape this week following the addition of central defender Luke Thompson from Nelson.

Thompson, aged 25, is a combative, strong defender with experience playing for Padiham and Colne, makes the step up to Evo-Stik football.

And joint manager Paul Fildes thinks the Rams could have unearthed a gem.

He said: "Luke is raw talent, he's a defender who loves to defend which is something of a rarity nowadays.

"He's a leader, strong and powerful and can chip in with goals as well.

"We're keen to have a real hard work mentality at the club and Luke fits the bill."

The Rams will kick off their pre-season fixtures on Saturday when they make the short journey up to face Thompson's former club Nelson.

It will also be a speedy return for joint-managers Fildes and Mark Fell, who were both at the North West Counties club last season.

Meanwhile, the club has joined forces with Pro Equip Sport and Joma to launch its new kit.

The Spanish sportswear giant recently secured Premier League side Swansea as one of its partner clubs, along with Sampdoria, Palermo, Villarreal and Espanyol. Now Ramsbottom is added to those illustrious names.

The new deal will see the brand new Rams home and away kits released when they play Bury at home on July 27.