STOCKPORT have signed winger Anthony Pilkington on a six-month deal.

The 18-year-old winger has been starring from Atherton Collieries in the North West Counties League.

The youngster, who is highly rated by Jim Gannon, has put pen to paper on a six month deal with the option of an extension at Edgeley Park.

"Anthony is a player I have admired for a while now," said Gannon.

"He's 6ft tall, he's got two great feet and is capable of tormenting defenders. He can play on either wing as well."

Pilkington is a student at Myerscough College and has netted 11 times for Collieries this season, which included an impressive hat-trick in a 3-0 win over FC United last week.

Gannon added: "We've offered Anthony a starter contract and I think it will be good for him to get a taste of professional football.

"Hopefully he can make significant progress during his six months with us.

"Anthony may well be involved with us for Saturday's trip to Bury."

Meanwhile, Gannon also revealed he is keen to keep loan midfielder Stephen Gleeson at the club when the player's current deal expires in the New Year.

The 18-year-old Dublin-born playmaker has signed from Wolves and has already been a hit with the Hatters.

Gannon, whose side are 10th in League Two, and just three places off the play-offs, added: "He's done really well for us and it was great for Wolves to let him play in the FA Cup.

"He's someone with a bright future and I'd like to keep him for longer, but I'm also looking forward to watching him play for the Wolves first team and maybe even for the full Republic of Ireland side one day."

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