Archie Lang admits it is strange to think of himself as a full-time professional after joining AFC Fylde last month, writes SAM LAWSON.

The 21-year-old moved to Mill Farm from Bamber Bridge, a year after joining them from Thornton Cleveleys and after Fylde had seen a bid turned down over the summer.

Lang, who made his Coasters debut in last weekend’s FA Cup victory at Harrogate Town, was among the crowd as TC reached round three of the FA Vase at the end of October.

He said: “Twelve months ago, I was playing here at Thornton so to make the jump is pretty surreal.

“I have to get my head down and work hard and try and get myself in the team. All I can do is work my hardest and see what happens.

“There was obviously a bit of interest in the summer that didn’t quite materialise, but I knew it was important to keep my head down and continue working hard and then there was another opportunity to join the club.

“It helps that it is on my doorstep so I can stay at home with family and friends.

“They are a team that is pushing for the Football League, how can you not want to be a part of that?

“It is an exciting project and one I am looking forward to.”

Lang was part of the TC team which achieved promotion from the West Lancashire League ahead of the 2024/25 season.

He then won the players’ player of the season and the manager’s player of the season awards in the club’s debut NWCFL campaign.

Following a strong start to the 2025/26 season, where he recorded six goals in 17 appearances, Lang left for Brig.

“It was obviously great being at Thornton, but I think I always knew in the back of my mind I wanted to try and push myself as high as I could,” he said.

“When the move to Bamber Bridge came about, it was still local, not too far to travel and under a good manager (Jamie Milligan) who helped me a lot as well.

“Going to Bamber Bridge was a really good experience and a good test but ultimately, I think I developed there over the past 11 months – I had a good time there.”

Lang is also juggling full-time football with studies at the University of Lancashire and coaching some of the TC youngsters.

He added: “The one group I coach at Thornton on a Sunday are the under-sevens.

“I enjoy doing it and it is very rewarding to be passing on that knowledge and giving them extra guidance.”