RAMSBOTTOM United have added experienced central defender Paul Linwood to their squad as they prepare for Saturday's season opener at home to Goole AFC.

The 32-year-old has recently been at Welsh Premier Division side GAP Connahs Quay, and was on the bench for the club’s first ever foray into European football.

He has now moved on to the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium thanks to the efforts of joint-managers Paul Fildes and Mark Fell, who were both keen to add his experience to the new-look squad.

After starting his career at Tranmere Rovers, where the Liverpudlian made 44 appearances in the Football League, Linwood moved on the neighbours Chester City after a loan spell with Wrexham, and turned out 122 times for the Deva Stadium outfit.

Moves to Grimsby Town and Fleetwood Town followed before returning to Chester, where the defender made a further 58 appearances.

He enjoyed a season at Salford City before moving on to Gap Connahs Quay, and will be hoping to enjoy another rewarding campaign, this time for the Rams in Evo-Stik First Division North.

Meanwhile, Rammy have been drawn at former Football League side Workington in the first round of the Integro League Challenge Cup.

The game will be played at Borough Park on Tuesday, November 15.

And the Rams' league match at home to Kendal Town, which was scheduled to be played on Christmas Eve, has been moved to Friday, December 30, kick off 7.45pm.