Guardian Sport
Rudd is the right man for us, says Blues boss Street of new signing
9:39am Thursday 16th February 2012
WINSFORD boss Ian Street believes his latest signing could be one of his best yet.
Blues completed the transfer of front man Stuart Rudd this week, who arrives from Evo-Stik NPL Division One North outfit Woodley Sports.
“He is one of the most prolific strikers still playing non-league football,” said Street.
“It’s a big coup for us.”
He will ask Rudd, a former fans’ favourite at Skelmersdale United and FC United of Manchester, to be the main marksman Winsford have lacked this term.
Only Alsager Town and Flixton in the North West Counties League Premier Division’s top ten have scored fewer times than Blues this term.
Andy Hurst, with eight goals, is Winsford’s top scorer.
Street said: “I’ve known Stuart for a good few years now and he will be a welcome addition in the dressing room as well as out on the field of play.
“I worked with him when I was assistant manager at Witton a couple of years ago, so am aware of what he is capable of.”
Rudd, now 35, hit the net more than 200 times for Skem.
He added 22 in 20 starts for Burscough before scoring 48 goals in two terms at FC United.
Stints at Bradford Park Avenue and Salford City followed before he helped Guiseley win promotion to the Football Conference.
The veteran can fill in as a defender too if needed.
Street said: “Stuart is versatile, which is another reason I wanted to bring him here.
“I know he can play as a centre half, so we have that option if we need it.”
Rudd hopes to make his Blues debut in this weekend’s League Challenge Cup clash against Ramsbottom United.