Goalkeeper Ben Garratt says that the pre-season training has been intense but the players are really feeling the benefits of going through a challenging schedule.

Garratt, 24, will be hoping that he has done enough in training and in the pre-season games to warrant starting the season as number one ahead of his close pal Dave Richards.

Boss David Artell has already hinted that the number one position is not a foregone conclusion and that both goalkeepers merit their chance. It will certainly be interesting when Artell names his team-sheet on the opening day of the season against Morecambe!

Ben told the club’s official website: “The pre-season has been good. It has been hard work, especially in the heat, but it has been enjoyable too.

“The lads can see the benefits. They are all in good shape and everyone is looking forward to the season now. We cannot wait to get going. We are raring to go.

“I’ve trained like I have always trained. I can only control what I can control and look after myself. The final decision on selection is down to the manager and all I can do to influence that decision is train and play as well as I can.

“I have confidence in my own ability and we will just have to see what happens.”