Tony Philliskirk is closing in on a new Centre of Excellence coach to take the under-16 side.

Philliskirk is close to an agreement with ex-Bury manager Chris Casper to take on the part-time role, recently vacated by Earl Barrett who has joined Stoke City.

The youth team chief is keen to fill the position before the season starts as sees the coaching post as key to the future of the club's youngsters.  A number of under-16 players graduated to the youth team at the end of last season.

"I have been talking to Chris about the role and he is keen to come on board, so we hope to have something confirmed soon," Philliskirk added.