Report by John Edwards

Picture by Jonathan Moore

Liam Brockbank has joined Gloucester City on loan in a move designed to further enhance his development and provide him with valuable game time.

It was seen as a coup for Altrincham when a deal was agreed to sign the 21-year old left-back from Lancaster City shortly after he walked away with two player-of-the-season awards at the Dolly Blues.

An impressive pre-season underlined why he is so highly rated, and he was a starter on the left of defence as the Robins launched their latest Vanarama National League campaign at home to Maidstone United.

At just 21, though, and having stepped up two divisions to join Alty, it was felt the talented defender would benefit from the experience of a loan spell at a suitably competitive level, and the Robins have consented for Liam to be with Gloucester until January 8th.

He arrives at the Tiger Turf Stadium just as Gloucester begin to sense a Vanarama National League North promotion push could be on the cards, following the recent appointment of Steven King, a manager with a proven record of success in the South division.

Last Saturday, City roared back from 2-0 arrears to beat Southport 3-2 at home, before 939 fans, to record their first win since former Dartford boss King replaced Lee Mansell at the end of last month.

They head to Alfreton Town this afternoon in 11th place in the table, looking to edge nearer to the leading pack, and Alty bosses will, of course, be keeping a close eye on Liam's progress during his stay in the West Country.

Everyone at The J.Davidson Stadium wishes Liam a successful and beneficial time with the Tigers and looks forward to welcoming him back to Moss Lane in the New Year.