Tim Flowers' big hopes for new-boy

Stafford Rangers manager Tim Flowers believes he could have unearthed a gem in Liam McDonald after insisting there is "more to come" from the midfielder.

McDonald is the first permanent addition to the squad since Flowers arrived as boss three weeks ago, making his debut alongside loan signings Sebastian Harris and Rod McDonald in last Saturday's 1-1 draw at Solihull Moors.

The 25-year-old has jumped up two levels to the Blue Square North and was playing in the Midland Alliance last season, as part of the Barwell side that were promoted as champions.

Matt Elliott had a big hand in bringing him to the club, after McDonald scored against the Oadby outfit he was co-managing in February.

Flowers is a huge fan of another star of that title-winning Barwell team, striker Adam Cunnington, who is earning rave reviews at Rangers' last opponents Solihull with six goals already this season.

And the manager believes his find can have a similar impact, after dismissing the notion that the gulf in class could come as a culture shock.

He said: "Liam did OK on his debut but I know he can do better, we could have done with a little more end product from him at times although it was his first game.

"He's got a nice left foot, can keep and pass the ball, he can get his head and look about and he can handle himself, so there's more to come from him.

"Adam Cunnington came from Barwell to this level, he's probably the best striker in the league for me and the Blue Square North is a good division.

"On paper any step up is tough but it can be done."