Ashton United vs Stalybridge Celtic - Friendlies Clubs

The Friendlies Clubs returns to the home ground on August 1, 2026, where Ashton United and Stalybridge Celtic will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. LIV Golf definitely changed the face of the professional game with the extortionate amounts of money that they pumped into the league.

Both Ashton United and Stalybridge Celtic will be eager to build momentum when they meet in Friendlies Clubs. Ashton United will be keen to seize the initiative and build some momentum on home soil. Stalybridge Celtic's away form is hard to read, but they will arrive with the belief that they can trouble their hosts. Phil Foden was handed a free role in the No 10 position behind striker Muamba, who scored in consecutive pre-season games.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Ashton United and Stalybridge Celtic have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. Their press is quick and co-ordinated in some areas of the pitch and not others.

Individual moments of quality could tip the balance. Both sides possess players capable of producing something out of nothing, and a single flash of brilliance may be all that separates them. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. City are seeking upwards of £60m for the 30-year-old midfielder, who has entered the final year of his deal.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 1-1 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Friendlies Clubs standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. And Fonseca does not place too much weight on the decision of Roberto Martinez to omit him from the World Cup squad in favour of his Benfica team-mate Tomas Araujo.