New Signings | Four Through The Door at West..
We’re thrilled to launch our summer recruitment with four exciting signings.
Joint Managers Lee Rick and Steve Yarwood have moved to secure Joe Berks, Joel Igwenwanne, James Hodges and Markell Foulds for the 2026/27 season.
Joe Berks
The midfielder came through the ranks at Port Vale before spells at Stafford Rangers, Hednesford Town and most recently at Mossley.
LR: “Joe brings a wealth of quality and experience to the squad having competed at step 4 level over the past few seasons. He is a player have worked with before and someone know will not only raise the quality of the group but the standards and mentality. He is comfortable is a number of positions, possesses excellent technical ability and will be a real asset to the group.”
JB: “I saw how well the club were supported at the Macron Cup Final and everything I’ve heard about the club has been great. I’ve spoken to Lee and Steve and their plans really align with what I want to achieve. I’ve played with Lee before and he really helped my game so he was a big factor in me joining the club.”
Joel Igwenwanne
The 21 year old right-back grew up in Germany before moving to the UK and joining the youth setup at Sheffield United. Since then he has played at Mossley, Wythenshawe Town, Glossop North End and Avro.
LR: “Joel is someone we identified early as a key target. Having made a number of appearances in a step 4 promotion-winning side last season, he will not only bring quality but high standards and a winning mentality to the group. He has all the attributes to establish himself as one of the league’s standout players in his position.”
JI: “I’m delighted to be here. I spoke with the managers and their ambitions to build a winning team that achieves promotion are exciting and meet my needs.”
James Hodges
The 27 year old goalkeeper has played for Hyde United, Chester, Stockport Georgians, Tadcaster Albion and most recently Cheadle Town. He also had made 6 appearances for West under Steve Settle in the 2017/18 season.
LR: “James has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers at this level. Having worked with him previously, I know first-hand the quality, professionalism and standards he brings both on and off the pitch.”
JH: “The club didn’t need much selling to me. I’ve played against West a few times and I’ve always been impressed by the number of supporters and how loud they are. In my career I’ve always been looking to reach the next level and I believe we’ve got a great chance of reaching step 4 here.”
Markell Foulds
The 25 year old defender returns to West after making 83 appearances in his first spell with the club, becoming a fans’ favourite at Brookburn Road.
LR: “From my first conversation with Markell it was clear how much he enjoyed his previous spell at West and how keen he was to return to help drive the club forward. He has since gained valuable experience at Step 4 and we’re confident he returns with quality and professionalism as we look to raise the bar.”
MF: “It feels good to be home and I’m excited to make some more memories here. I want to win the league here and get back playing at Step 4. Lee and Steve didn’t need to sell their plan to me, I know the club and the fanbase.”
Eddie – Monday 8th June 2026. (Text and images supplied by West).