AFC Fylde’s new signing Matty Hughes is targeting a double promotion with the club to help achieve his target of a return to playing in the Football League.

The 23 year-old turned down offers to play in the Football League and Conference National to switch to AFC Fylde following his release from Fleetwood Town.

Now back in pre-season training, the striker is relishing the chance to run out in a white shirt ahead of an exciting year ahead for AFC Fylde.

He said: “Obviously, the main aim for me is to get as many games as possible this season and hopefully I’ll be able to help the team get promoted.

“I sat down with the manager and the chairman and they sold me the ambition of the club. I think the club have the potential to make it to the Football League and I want to be part of that.”’

A few eyebrows were raised following Fleetwood Town’s decision to release the forward at the end of the season and it is clear he wants to let his football do the talking this time around.

He added: “There are similarities between Fylde and my last club, Fleetwood. They’re both ambitious, more so than some other teams which really pleases me as I want to match that ambition.

“But with AFC Fylde and the new ground being built too it sets this club apart from most of the others and that’s the choice I made.”

 

SIGNING: Matty Hughes signs on the dotted line for manager Dave Challinor.

Hughes is coming in as a new face into the squad with no links to current personnel, but again he is keen for his actions to speak louder than words.

Hughes said: “The lads here seem great, although I didn’t know any of them before I came here. I’m sure they’ll get to know me and I’ll get to know well. As long as we perform on the pitch that’s all that matters really.’

‘I’m not really one of those people who set targets for a season but I’d like to get my goal-scoring into double figures. That would be nice.”’

Coasters boss Dave Challinor said: “He’ll undoubtedly bring even more quality to a side that scored the most goals in our division last season. He’s young, quick, has great ability to go past players and can finish. Most importantly for me though he’s a winner and he plays with that will and desire. To get him to the club for two years with an option for a third is fantastic.”

Coasters fans will get a chance to see him for the first time ironically against his former club Fleetwood Town in a first pre-season friendly on July 9th at Kellamergh Park.

Admission is £8 for adults, £5 for concessions and free for all under 16s.

The game kicks off at 7.30pm.