CHORLEY boss Matt Jansen is delighted with how his squad is shaping up after the capture of midfielder Josh O'Keefe from Altrincham this week.

The 27-year-old played 31 games for the Robins last season in all competitions, scoring one goal for the Moss Lane outfit as they were relegated from the National League.

Magpies manager Jansen said: “We signed Josh this week and I think it’s as strong a squad as ever had since I’ve been here.

"I’m looking forward to the new season already."

O'Keefe was born in Whalley and started his career at Blackburn Rovers academy before spells at Walsall, Lincoln City, Southport, Hereford United and Kidderminster Harriers. He also has one Under-21 cap for the Republic of Ireland.

He's the second Altrincham player to have signed for the Victory Park club, with defender Scott Leather, 24, agreeing a deal last month.

Chorley have pre-season friendlies lined up against Preston North End on July 9, Wigan on July 20 and Bolton on July 27, before kicking off their league campaign.

And Jansen can't wait to get going, saying: “There are two good clubs who have been promoted in Salford City and Darlington, and three quality clubs who were relegated in Halifax, Altrincham and Kidderminster, so it’s a tough league but we are a strong squad.”