Macclesfield boss Keith Alexander has confirmed the club will travel to Northern Ireland as part of their pre-season training.The Silkmen will fly out on July 13 for seven days and are expected to play up to three games, although these details are yet to be confirmed.

Alexander believes the trip will not only act as a chance to put his squad through their paces but will also help develop relationships between the players.

He told the club's official website: "In addition to the three games we will be playing, it is a chance for the new squad to spend some time together away from home and begin the bonding process that is so vital to any successful football club.

"It is essential we get our preparation right so we hit the ground running when the season starts in August."

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