Phillips revolution gathers steam as two new faces added

Matlock Town boss Paul Phillips has confirmed the signings of midfielder Callum Chippendale and winger Callum Dolan, subject to League and FA approval, as the restructuring of the Gladiators’ squad gathers pace.

Chippendale was captain at local rivals Buxton last season where Phillips was in charge while Dolan arrives from Radcliffe.

Twenty four years old, Chippendale is one of two footballing brothers, the other Aidan is a winger at Ossett United. Callum began his career at Barnsley playing in the Tykes under 23 side before moving to Bradford Park Avenue. He later had a spell at Boston United, a loan period at Gainsborough Trinity before joining Glossop North End, Shaw Lane and latterly Buxton.

Phillips says he is delighted to have snapped up one of his major targets. “He was my captain at Buxton and wanted to come with me so I’m very happy we’ve managed to bring him here for he’s a massive player who brings a lot into teams he plays for. Even though he’s only 24, he’s got a lot of experience at this level, scores goals from midfield which was something we largely lacked last season and can also play as a centre forward. He’s a massive signing who’ll clearly enhance us as a team.”

Dolan (19) started out in the academy at Manchester United before featuring in the youth teams at Blackburn Rovers and Bury. A spell at Oldham Athletic followed after being in non league with Stockport Town and Altrincham before he was released by the Latics and ended up at Radcliffe.

“He’s a great footballer who’s played in the Football League who’s good enough to get back there” said Phillips.

“He can play on the wing or in that number ten slot, his ability’s unquestionable and if he can get his head right he’ll be back playing at a higher level. He works hard both on and off the ball which is important for a winger. As I’ve said previously last year we had wingers who had the ability but didn’t do enough when the opposition had the ball. I also expect him to score a few goals. He’ll be a good fit for us and I’d like to thank Kevin Wilson for his help in bringing Callum to Matlock as he realises that Matlock is a good club for lads to come to develop and improve.”

Chippendale and Dolan are Matlock’s second and third signings of the summer following attacker Kayde Coppin’s move from Mossley last weekend. Coppin will double up as Assistant Coach at the Proctor Cars Stadium.

Ian Richardson