Phil Parkinson has added vital experience and know-how to a key area of his Altrincham squad after influential midfielder Ben Pringle agreed to remain at The J.Davidson Stadium for another season, writes John Edwards.

The Alty boss had already equipped his midfield with youthful drive and energy for the transition to full-time professional status after retaining Isaac Marriott and Elliot Osborne from last season and recruiting highly-rated Josh Lundstram from Crewe Alexandra.

Now he has added a veteran of over 200 Football League games for the likes of Derby County, Fulham, Ipswich Town and Preston North End after 33-year old Pringle, signed from Morecambe last summer, agreed a new deal.

“Prings has become a big fans’ favourite,’ said Parkinson. “His left foot could open a tin of beans and certainly any defence at this level of football.

“His experience around the group day-to-day will be invaluable to myself. He’s a player that still has the drive to play and wants to grow with the club off the pitch as well. I’m very glad he’s decided to stay.”

The agreement with Pringle represents the completion of negotiations with players from last season’s squad. It means A-J Leitch-Smith, Ritchie Sutton and Kennedy Digie are leaving, along with full-back Jamie Morgan, who has rejoined Chester after being unable to commit to full-time football.

“We’d like to thank Jamie for his commitment to the club during his short spell with us,’ said Parkinson. “With the transition on to full time, both parties mutually agreed to terminate the current contract. We wish him every success moving forward at his next club.”

Alty have finalised their programme of pre-season friendlies after securing a fixture with a Manchester United Xl at The J.Davidson Stadium on Saturday, July 30, one week before the start of the 2022-23 Vanarama National League campaign.