Former Premier League ace Marc Pugh signs for Clitheroe

​The Bacup lad, who began his career at Burnley without making a first-team appearance, went on to have fine career predominantly with Bournemouth.

Under Eddie Howe, Pugh helped the Cherries reach the top flight of English football and made more than 300 appearances, 67 of which came in the Premier League.

Pugh also had spells with Bury, Hull City, Queens Park Rangers Shrewsbury Town and Hereford.

Boss Dave Dempsey said “To bring in a player of Marc’s calibre is testament to everything we are trying to do at this football club. Marc will add an abundance of quality to the group, a vast amount of experience and will hopefully be able to give us that extra bit of quality to see games off for the run in of the season.”

Pugh said: “Delighted to be given the opportunity to help out my local town and club in their final push for the playoffs.

“Clitheroe have kindly offered to make a generous donation to a local charity on my behalf in lieu of wages. I can’t wait to get started.”