STRIKER Alex Titchiner, who scored goals that helped Witton Albion avoid relegation last season, is to stay at Wincham Park.

He signed a new deal after returning from a holiday on Sunday, which includes him taking on the role as head of the club’s new Northern Premier League Academy side.

“I’m made up to have Titch on board again,” said manager Brian Pritchard.

“We’ve worked hard on a deal that can work both for us and the player, who we think is a perfect fit for the position.”

“This gives him a chance to fine tune his coaching skills as well as providing the Academy lads with an opportunity to work with a player who has experience as a professional.

“It’s great he’s agreed to take on the extra responsibility.”

Titchiner returned to the club in January after leaving Fleetwood Town, hitting the net eight times in 18 starts.

Most of those were decisive, helping Witton move clear of the Premier Division drop zone.

His tally in three spells at the club is now 53 goals in just 84 appearances.

The 23-year-old will join new recruits Chris Sanna, Michael Lea and Michael Koral at pre-season training next month.

With the exception of already-departed Matt Cooper, who has agreed to play for league rivals Marine, Jon Breeze and Ally Brown – Pritchard has told the Guardian he expects the remainder of last season’s squad to be there too.

Josh Hancock left for Telford last month.

Titchiner starts work straightaway with the Academy, a two-year pilot scheme for teenagers that combines playing competitive football with studying for a qualification.

Boys, aged between 16 and 18, attempted to impress him during a trial at Wincham Park last night, Tuesday.

“I can think of nobody better to inspire the next generation of local talent,” said Witton chairman Mark Harris.

“I hope his involvement will encourage school-leavers, who want the chance to pursue a career within the game, to take part.”