AFC Fylde complete keeper signing and outline two further friendlies

The 24-year-old has joined for an undisclosed fee from National League North outfit Buxton, signing a two-year deal with the option of another 12 months.

He played in both matches against Fylde in the 2022/23 season, the Coasters winning the first meeting in January before March’s return match was drawn.

Having been part of Manchester United’s youth set-up, Richardson had spells with Grantham Town, Cleethorpes and King’s Lynn Town before joining Buxton in 2021.

He now faces the task of competing with Chris Neal, who penned a new deal last week following promotion back to non-league’s top flight.

Richardson told Fylde’s website: “I’m buzzing to be here finally and get it all sorted, and I can’t wait for the new season to start.

“It’s a club that I know wants to go places. Their ambition matches my ambition, and it’s somewhere I’ve got family close to as well, so it was a no-brainer.”

Fylde have also confirmed details of two more pre-season friendlies ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.

The club had already outlined a match against Barrow AFC at Kellamergh Park on Tuesday, July 18 (7.45pm).

They welcome Salford City to Mill Farm on Saturday, July 29 (3pm) in a repeat of the 2019 National League play-off-final, which the Ammies won 3-0 to secure promotion into the EFL.

Before both of those matches will be a trip to North West Counties Football League Premier Division outfit Longridge Town.

The Coasters kick off their pre-season programme by heading to the Recycling Lives Ground on Tuesday, July 4 (7.45pm).