The Magpies boss watched on Saturday as his young charges battled hard against Durham City before losing 3-1 to make it one point from a possible 12.

Hesketh boosted his squad on Friday by bringing back former midfielder Gavin Lee Ellison but said he's keen to add some more experienced players.

He said: "We are working on a tight budget and we need a cash injection through more sponsors.

"I believe they will be part of this club's success in a year or two but they have not won much in their careers before now. If we can have a few experienced players they will bring the young players on and develop into a better team."

Hesketh believes the club do not have a Victory Park 'hoo-doo' despite only one league win this season (4-1 against Skelmersdale United) but he's full of praise for supporters: "The crowd was superb and they really got behind the team well. I thought they showed great appreciation for our efforts in the second half.

"I know we have a couple of difficult games ahead and I want to turn this around but I hope that they can continue to support us."