LEIGH RMI were dealt a big blow this weekend, when it emerged that Ian Bishop is about to sign for Bangor City in the League of Wales.

Bishop was not witness to RMI's 2-1 defeat to Vauxhall Motors at the weekend, but Steve Waywell is hoping that the former Manchester City and West Ham midfielder will feature in tonight's friendly with Crewe Alexandra and that he can persuade him to stay.

Chances of landing the services of veteran striker Tony Ellis also hang by a thread as a non-league bidding war is in progress to sign him up ahead of the new season. Despite that, he could be another one who pulls on the red and white against Crewe tonight in a friendly that should draw the local crowds.

Leigh's favourite player in their short history, Steve Jones, will be hoping to make a return to his former hunting ground in front of fans who took him to their heart before his £75,000 transfer 12 months ago. In addition to that, Tony Black and Dino Maamria are both lining up to improve a quite bleak looking striking partnership whilst Gerry Harrison could figure.

Goalkeeper Stuart Coburn, one of the summer's main signings, remains doubtful after injuring an ankle against Bury last week.

Fans can catch up with the latest news from Hilton Park 24 hours a day 7 days a week now after RMI opened a new information line this week. The line will be updated daily with news from the Leigh camp as well as regular updates from home and away matches. It can be found on 09066 01-01-70.