AFC Telford draft in three for the title run in

The Bucks have brought in Southport defender James Smith on loan until the end of the season and signed goalkeeper Zac Hibbert and striker Chris Simm.

The latter two will remaining with their current club, Evo-Stik Northern Premier League side Skelmersdale United, after penning dual registration forms.

The non-contract duo will only be called upon if needed after being drafted into the squad, with all three having played under Watson when he was at Southport.

Today's transfer activity is more in one fell swoop than the club have managed all season, midfielder Mike Grogan first joining on non-contract terms in September.

Winger Shaun Whalley was then captured on loan from Luton Town in January, a deal that has now been extended until the end of the season.

The Telford chief also hailed player-coach Alan Moogan as "like a new signing," after the midfielder made his first start for seven months last weekend.

The 29-year-old's season has been decimated by a groin injury, but he managed 76 minutes of the 4-0 win at home to Oxford City with no reaction.

Watson said: "People might realise how important Alan is now, he's a key player for us and makes us play a bit more, particularly now when games are tense.

"He's also got that bit more aggression. Having him as the anchor gives us that bit more flexibility, along with his positional sense and quality on the ball.

"Bringing him back in has been like making a new signing."

Watson is leaving no stone unturned as he looks to lead the club to the league title, with North Ferriby United missing the chance to go top.

They could only record a 3-3 draw at Workington last night, leaving Telford a point clear with the top and now with a game in hand, too.