Source: Northern_Echo
Staunton makes his mark with two signings
NEW Darlington manager Steve Staunton has wasted no time in exerting his influence by recruiting two players ahead of his first game in charge.[LNB] Former Middlesbrough striker Noel Whelan and Liverpool left-back Robbie Threlfall have arrived and both go into the squad that travels to Dagenham today for tomorrows match.[LNB] Whelan has joined on a noncontract basis having spent last season in the Conference North with Harrogate Town with Quakers representing his latest stopping point in what has proven to be a nomadic existence since leaving Boro 2003.[LNB] The 34-year-old joined the Teessiders in 2000 in a £2.2m move from Coventry, who spent a similar amount on taking him from hometown club Leeds United.[LNB] But since leaving Middlesbrough, Whelan has played for Crystal Palace, Millwall, Derby, Aberdeen, Boston, Livingston and Dunfirmline.[LNB] var so = new SWFObject('/resources/flash/flashplayer_sm.swf/','pic','313','268','9'); so.useExpressInstall('/resources/flash/expressInstall.swf/'); so.addParam('allowscriptaccess','always'); so.addParam('allowfullscreen','true'); so.addVariable('width','313'); so.addVariable('height','268'); so.addVariable('image','/resources/images/1062027/'); so.addVariable('file','/resources/flashplaylist/90996/'); so.addVariable('javascriptid','pic'); so.addVariable('enablejs','true'); so.addVariable('shuffle','false'); so.addVariable('volume','0'); so.addVariable('autostart','true'); so.write('flashPlayer880872184'); Liverpool-born Threlfall, 20, is yet to feature for the Reds first-team but has spent temporary spells with Hereford and Stockport and joins Quakers on an initial months loan.[LNB] He will be viewed as a key signing as Darlington failed to bring in a left-back during preseason.[LNB] Mark Bower, a centre-back by trade, had been used there until suffering an ankle injury four weeks ago since when left-winger Jeff Smith has filled in.[LNB] Threlfall is likely to slot straight into the Darlington side tomorrow while Staunton will also have loan midfielder Jamie Chandler available after the completion of his three-match ban.[LNB] Meanwhile, Staunton has explained that Kevin Richardsons recruitment as assistant manager was essential in maintaining a North-East feel to the club and he is full of praise for his former teammates coaching capabilities.[LNB] They played together during the early 1990s at Aston Villa and were reunited this week when appointed as Quakers management team.[LNB] Irishman Staunton has replaced Chester-le-Street-born Colin Todd, and the new manager believes that a regional presence is important.[LNB] Richardson, from Blakelaw in Newcastle, will be in the dug-out alongside Staunton for the first game of their reign tomorrow and the new boss said: Kevins done plenty of coaching and I played with Kevin at Villa so I know his character, I know hes a good coach, good with younger players.[LNB] Hes got the right blend and hes from the area so it was a no-brainer.[LNB] I think its very important to have North-East presence.[LNB] Its like the three or four young players weve got coming through the ranks.[LNB] Its vital for the club to have people from the area, and an identity with the fans.[LNB] It makes up the ingredients for a club.[LNB] Staunton also explained how he has sought the opinions of Craig Liddle and Neil Maddison who had been in caretaker charge of the side for three matches after Todds exit a fortnight ago.[LNB] We have been in touch with Craig and Neil since the start of the week, said Staunton.[LNB] We spoke to them before the game on Tuesday and then let the two boys get on with the game.[LNB] Theyve given us a lot of information so far but well be getting a bit more over the next few days.[LNB] The Darlington supporters club have places available on the coach for tomorrow.[LNB] Places cost £31 and the coach leaves at 8am. To book a place call (01325) 243911.[LNB] Darlington host Crook Town in the Durham County Challenge Cup later this month. The first round tie will be held at The Northern Echo Arena on Tuesday, October 20 (7.30pm), with tickets priced £3 adults and £1 concessions (over-65s and under-16s).[LNB]
