JON Macken aims to use the summer to hopefully build Radcliffe FC's squad into a promotion force for next season.

The man who took over as manager at the Neuven Stadium a few weeks into the season to begin his career in management has been relatively pleased with the way the job has gone so far.

Despite finishing third bottom of Evo-Stik North, Macken has enjoyed his first few months at the helm, and says he is already looking forward to next season.

"I've really enjoyed it, in fact if I'm honest I didn't want the season to finish," he said after his side signed off with an impressive victory at a Prescot Cables side who finished fifth and are in the play-offs.

"I've learned a lot. Recruitment has been a challenge, selling the club to players you want to bring in hasn't been easy being near the bottom of the table."

He said the club's hierarchy have backed him despite the team's position in the table.

"Don't get me wrong, we've had some poor results and poor performances but they have been very supportive," he said.

"They have understood where we are trying to go.

"And towards the end of the season we have got close to what we are looking for with some of our performances.

"The team has put in some very good performances and the belief is there that we can compete with anyone."

Thoughts now turn to building for next season with Macken adding: "In the summer we will be trying to recruit the players we have identified this season who can help us go on to the next level.

"Every club is trying to do the same thing but we are tying to put ourselves in a position where players will want to come to Radcliffe FC and be a part of what we are trying to build.

"The good thing is when people talk about Radcliffe FC they are doing so in a good light."