Morecambe manager Adam Lakeland is targeting new signings in defensive and attacking positions to address an injury crisis. The club has lost captain Will Smith to surgery and is missing Alex Cherera, leaving them with only four recognised senior defenders.

Smith, a 27-year-old summer signing from FC Halifax Town, had featured in nine National League North games before his injury. His absence and Cherera's have created a significant shortage at the back for a side sitting 11th in the table with 14 points from 10 games.

Recent form builds confidence

Despite the setbacks, the team's recent performances have provided a platform of confidence. Morecambe have lost just once in their last seven outings, a run that includes a commanding 3-0 FA Cup win over Darlington 1883 last Saturday. That result, with goals from M. Daly, E. Newby and I. Buckley, extended a sequence of three wins and a draw from their last five matches in all competitions.

Lakeland said the team needs to add players at the right time and must avoid bringing in individuals who will not contribute. He stressed the importance of keeping this season's squad on their toes to maintain the performance levels that have yielded six wins from the last seven games. The manager noted that the team's recent run has been built on a solid defensive foundation, with the side conceding only 5 goals in their last 7 matches, averaging just over 71 goal minutes per game.

Transfer strategy focuses on balance

The manager's immediate plan is to add one or two new faces capable of strengthening the squad. He is looking for quality signings that can make an impact straight away, aiming to bolster both the defensive line and attacking options. This search for reinforcements comes as the team prepares for their next National League North fixture away to 18th-placed Worksop Town on October 10. The club's current squad details show the areas most affected by the recent absences. Lakeland confirmed the team will travel to face Worksop Town, who have conceded 19 goals in their 10 league matches so far, in their next competitive outing.

This story first appeared at Lancaster Guardian Football