Manager Andy Coyles says his new additions will bring a lot of experience into Penrith AFC’s team, ahead of their trip to Thornaby today.

Strikers Shaun Gardner and Connor Shields have both re-joined the Bonny Blues, with the pair starting in their 1-0 Brooks Mileson Memorial League Cup group-stage loss at Whickham on Wednesday night.

Former Carlisle City man Ryan Errington also started in midweek at the Glebe Sports Ground while former Morecambe midfielder Garry Thompson has joined the Frenchfield Park outfit, too, after a short stint as Bradford (Park Avenue) manager.

"There were positives to take from Wednesday’s game for many reasons," admitted Coyles.

"We had a number of new players in the side. Shaun Gardner and Connor Shields are back, and Ryan Errington played for us, as well.

"It helps to give us a bit more competition for places. If performances are not great, we want people to be pushing at the door to come in."

Gardner has already made more than 100 Penrith appearances in previous spells with the club, while 38-year-old Thompson spent the majority of his career playing in the Football League, before he signed for Workington Reds in January.

“They do have a lot of experience,” Coyles said of his new signings. “They are honest lads, and they are hard-working lads.

“Connor will bring pace and plenty of energy.

"Shaun will bring goals and Garry has a vast amount of experience across a variety of leagues.”

This afternoon (3pm kick-off) the Bonny Blues will face Thornaby, who are at the foot of the Northern League, Division One table, with both sides having claimed only one league win so far this term.

But Penrith will be without Adam Main, Errington and Stuart Johnson.