Spragg stays as Fylde search for new blood

The former Italy international, who joined Fylde at the beginning of last season, had been weighing up his options but has now decided that he will stay to help the club for their third National League One campaign, which begins in September.

One player who has yet to make up his mind over his Woodlands future is scrum-half Ryan de la Harpe.

He too is pondering different avenues, though Fylde are hoping he too will stay.

Coach Mark Nelson said: “I haven’t been able to speak to Ryan recently because he has been away playing sevens rugby.”

Nelson is continuing to work hard to bolster his squad in a bid to build on last season’s sixth-placed finish.

He has pinpointed a number of targets who are in his sights.

Nelson will not give any indication of names at this stage but said: “I am hoping to complete three signings in the next couple of weeks.”

So far the only player who has indicated he is leaving the club is second row forward Gareth Rawlings, who is moving back to his previous club Longton.

Rawlings missed much of last campaign because of injury and suspension.

Fly-half Chris Johnson, named captain by England Counties for the opening match of their tour of Belgium, has taken his first step into coaching.

He will coach the Huddersfield YMCA club, who play in North One East League in the Rugby Football Union structure.

It means that Johnson will have to juggle the new responsibilities with his playing role at Fylde.

Johnson will coach the Huddersfield YMCA backs.

YMCA director of rugby Damon Scholes said of Johnson’s appointment: “He was an inspirational player during his time at Huddersfield, where he was at the heart of their successful National Two North campaigns, and is respected by everyone involved in the game.

“As a result, we regarded it as a bit of a coup when he agreed to come and help us out on the coaching front.”

“I know the players are excited about working with Johnno.

“I also know he’s excited about joining us.”