Skipper heads for City

Garry Flitcroft's preparations for Saturday's Lancashire derby against Chorley at the Leigh Sports Village Stadium have been hit with the news that Genesis captain Jonathan Smith has requested to be released from his contract in order to join league leaders Lancaster City.

The centre back joins the Dolly Blues with immediate effect and will be competing with Michael Stringfellow and ex-Leigh man Andrew Teague for a spot in the Giant Axe back four.

Smith, who turns thirty four next week, joined Leigh 11 months ago from Clitheroe, making his debut in a 0-0 draw away to Frickley Athletic. Smith wore the captain's armband for the first time that evening, and did so in all thirty four appearances that he has made for the club in all competitions since last March, scoring his only goal in a 3-1 loss to Bamber Bridge in December.

The club would like to express their appreciation of the contribution that Jonathan has made to the team and he leaves with the club's best wishes.