JAMES Gill believes the arrival of Danny Forrest as his assistant at Silsden can have a major influence on and off the pitch.

The Keighley-born former Bradford City striker, who made a dream debut on Tuesday night with a goal just 46 seconds after coming on as a sub in the 2-0 win over AFC Liverpool, has followed new boss Gill in joining the Cobbydalers from North West Counties League Premier Divison neighbours Barnoldswick.

He brings a wealth of experience to his role as player and coach, which should prove crucial in Silsden's fight to beat relegation.

Having burst on to the scene as a teenager for the Bantams, Forrest has spent much of his career in the higher echelons of non-league football, including spells with Halifax, Crawley, Barrow and Guiseley.

He quit the game last November following a stint with Gainsborough Trinity but signed for Barnoldswick after Christmas following an invitation from Gill - who was Town's assistant manager at the time - to train with the club.

Gill, who has been friends with Forrest for years, said: "He brings a lot both on and off the pitch.

"He will have a massive influence on the young lads. Already, in and around the dressing room he has made an impact.

"The lads look up to him and hopefully his knowledge will wear off on them.

"His goals will hopefully be vital but he is also a good all-round player. He is still only 31."

His experience at non-league level – he has also had spells at Harrogate Town and Bradford Park Avenue – means Forrest is also likely to play a key role in player recruitment.

Gill said: "Between Danny and myself, we have a lot of contacts in the semi-professional game and that will help us build a stronger and better team.

"We have already strengthened, having brought in centre half Kyle Harrison from Farsley. Danny knows Kyle from when he was at Guiseley."

Also recently added to the ranks is experienced player Jamie Longley, who has returned to Silsden from Barnoldswick and marked his return with their second goal against AFC Liverpool.

The Cobbydalers' bolstered resources are being put to the test with tonight's rearranged trip to Bootle coming just two days after their win on Tuesday.

But after yet another postponement last Saturday, when the home game with Squires Gate was washed out, Gill is desperate to starting catching up on the mounting backlog of fixtures.

He said: "It was my call to play tonight. I noticed that Bootle did not have a midweek fixture and we have a full squad of 25 players at the moment.

"I'd rather be playing games now than at the end of April when we might not be at full strength."