FOUR new faces were introduced to New Brighton's rugby squad when they reported for pre-season training.

Anthony Birley, Alistair Atkinson, Jim Keulmans and Lee Wakelam are the first of Director of Rugby Alistair Saverimutto's new signings and for Anthony it marks an early return to Reeds Lane after a successful spell with Cornwall club Launceston.

The exciting No 10 made a big impact on local rugby with the Wirral Academy last season before signing for the Cornishmen as a mid-season replacement for their injured stand-off.

Alistair Atkinson, a towering 6ft 5", 18-stone back row powerhouse, joins New Brighton from Orrell. At 22, Alistair is already an experienced National League Division One player.

Dutch international No 7 Jim Keulmans featured in all five games for his country last season, winning the 'man-of-the-match' award against Romania, Spain and Portugal. Quietly spoken Keulmans confirmed that he was looking forward to making his mark in English rugby with the Wirral club. Keulmans is known for his 'dog-like' tenacity and uncompromising approach to the game.

Lee Wakelam is another local lad returning to the peninsula after two seasons with Orrell. Lee started his rugby at Wirral RFC and is now studying at the University of Staffordshire. The flying winger, who weighs in at more than 13-stone and is over 6ft tall, made a big impression at Edge Hall Road.

Mr Saverimutto said of his new signings: "The new lads are bringing a lot of talent to an already proven squad. Terms have also been agreed with a very accomplished overseas player. Once the medical testing and contract formalities are complete, I will announce his details."

Some 30 squad members attended training last week, with others expected to join the squad on their return from holiday next week.

Other new faces at the Blues' training sessions were coaches Tony O'Brian, of Warrington Wolves, together with 'Human Performance Specialist' Mike Johnston. Along with Steve Rule, Rick Shuttleworth, who is completing a PhD in Sport at Crewe & Alsager, remain on the New Brighton coaching panel.

Joining the medical team are Amanda Lee, a sports rehabilitation graduate, and sports massage therapist Pauline Bentley. Derek Sutton will be taking on the role of first team manager.

Said Mr Saverimutto: "Rugby at the top level is a sophisticated animal. It is important that we have specialist skills and professionalism in all areas."

Speculation continues to surround the future of Chris Bentley, who took part in all three training sessions at Reeds Lane last week.

All he would say on the matter was: "I still have no club for next season and will continue to rule nothing out at this stage."

Bentley captained Orrell last season and has been linked with Bristol and Sedgley Park, but Reeds Lane officials are hoping that he will given the Blues another year.

Neville Waters, Chairman of Rugby, commented: "Chris is still a young second row. He could do well to have a season with us developing his game. We are pleased with the developments Alistair is introducing for our senior side. However, we are also delighted that the traditional game is still thriving at the club with Mike Gazolla taking up the captaincy to assist Karl Lamb with the Social XV."