AFC Telford sign two more ex-Southport players

Central midfielders Moogan, 29, and Benjamin, 22, have become the 13th and 14th new signings made by Bucks manager Liam Watson during a busy close season.

Moogan will occupy two roles – he will also work as a player coach at the New Bucks Head, as he did at Haig Avenue.

Watson has been working tirelessly in recent weeks to bolster his midfield ahead of the 2013-14 Conference North season.

Watson said: "Russell put in some great performances for me last year. He is young, exciting and has a lot of ability.

"He is someone who should, eventually, be looking to move on and play higher level football."

He added: "Alan was one of Southport's most influential players.

"He worked as player-coach last year and his credentials speak for themselves. He is an unbelievable signing."

Moogan and Benjamin will bolster a midfield that already includes Sean Clancy and Sean Cooke.

Moogan started his career at Everton and made appearances for England at under-18 level before going onto play for Buscough and the Sandgrounders.

Benjamin, meanwhile, is a product of Southport's youth system. He spent two years at Rochdale but returned to Haig Avenue, where he featured regularly last season before being released.

Their arrivals will bring the number of players at Watson's disposal to 16 ahead of the club's first pre-season training session, which takes place at Wrekin College tonight.

Watson has been aiming for a squad of about 19-20 players. More additions are expected to be made in during pre-season.

Boss Watson and assistant Dominic Morley will also assess trialists and youth team players.

Telford's fixtures for the Conference North 2013-14 season will be released tomorrow at 11am.