Wilshaw returns

A familiar face has returned to Surrey Street ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. 

Former Glossop North End captain Lee Wilshaw has rejoined the club to take on the role of assistant manager, as part of a reshuffle of Richard Brodie’s backroom staff. 

The 30-year-old has had a successful coaching career since hanging up his boots, having worked with both Rochdale and Derby County, where he currently assists with player development at youth level. 

The defender also spent last season with NPL West side Wythenshawe Town, where he acted as a player-coach. 

Following his appointment, Wilshaw told the club: “I had a couple of offers for various roles elsewhere, but I felt at this point in my career, it’d be best to move into coaching. 

“I’m fortunate enough to know a lot of the fans and backroom staff, and when Brodes [Richard Brodie] approached me, I thought, absolutely. 

“As a player I was always very honest, and I intend to be exactly same as a coach. 

“I want to be someone who people can lean on, but also someone who will be honest with them. 

“Ultimately, I’m here to help develop players, and get Glossop back where they need to be.” 

Hillmen boss Richard Brodie also commented on the appointment: 

“Lee knows this club inside out, and he brings a professionalism and work ethic that will raise standards.  

“He’s got a great football brain, a good rapport with the lads, and he’s someone who came highly recommended. “It’s great to have him on board.” 

Brodie and Wilshaw have moved quickly to secure their first signings of the summer, bringing in three big names from fellow NWCFL Premier side Chadderton, including their captain Jordan Schofield.   

The central defender, who made 53 appearances last campaign, will add some welcome experience and leadership to the Hillmen backline. 

Schofield will link up once again with former teammate Olly Parker in defence next season, after the club captain committed his future to the Asgard Engineering Stadium earlier this week. 

A successful debut season saw Parker rack up 37 appearances across five competitions in 24/25. 

Elsewhere, talented midfielder James Purfield also joins the Hillmen. 

Purfield has captained the side on numerous occasions, and picked up the Supporters’, Managers’ and Players’ Player of the Year Awards in 2024. 

Finally, forward Ethan Sutcliffe will hope to bolster Glossop’s frontline in 25/26. 

Sutcliffe notched 10 goals for Chaddy last season in all competitions.