With the new season fast approaching we caught up with Ian Shirt to ask him for his thoughts about pre-season, the squad for the season and what he was hoping for in 2016/17.

So Ian as we approach another season how has your pre-season been?

IS – We have had a decent pre-season and I think we have strengthened the playing squad. Kev Wright and Josh Wright who have joined the management team have added much needed experience, appetite to succeed and enthusiasm and I think you will see a much fitter and stronger team this season. We have managed to establish good links with Stocksbridge Park Steels FC which has helped to bring in some quality players with the likes of Joe Singleton and Matt Pinder, and we have managed to retain players we wanted from last year so I think we are in a better place both on and off the field.

How do you think we will do this season?

IS – I am optimistic that we will improve on last season and hold our own. There is a lot of cash being thrown about by some teams but I think we will be competitive. I am pleased with the work Kev and Josh have put in during pre-season and the lads have worked hard both in training and in games to get us ready for Yorkshire Amateur on Saturday. I am happy with the squad we have and we will continue to look to make additions if we think we can get people in to improve us further but overall I think we have made some good signings and added to the players we have retained I think we will be okay and give teams a much harder game this season.

Thanks for your time Ian, and good luck for the coming season.