Powerful prop signs for Fylde

Launders is likely to get his first run-out in a Fylde shirt at the Woodlands on Good Friday, when Fylde take on Preston Grasshoppers in the Brendan Hanavan memorial match, played in honour of the free-scoring former Woodlands winger.

Fylde coach Paul Arnold has been aware of Launders for some time and made his move on hearing the front-rower was relocating to England.

Arnold, who takes charge of his first match as Fylde player-coach in National League One at Cinderford on Saturday, said: “Liam has finished his time in Scotland and has started training with us. We will have a look at him on Good Friday.

“I have known Liam since he played with Preston Grasshoppers and he is a loose-head with loads of potential.”

Prior to Edinburgh Academicals, Launders played an important part in helping previous club Hawick win promotion to the Scottish Premier League.

He is a former student at Myerscough College and had a spell at the academy of Premiership club Sale Sharks.

Launders is 6ft 2in and weighs in at 18st.

Arnold had previously signed Preston trio Dominic Moon, Pete Altham and Lewis Allen within a few days of taking charge from previous coach Mark Nelson,

There could be more prospective signings on view when a Fylde development squad take on Oldham on April 8.