WITTON Albion have started training and now know the full extent of the challenge ahead of them.
Their return to the UniBond Premier Division starts at Guiseley and they have also been blessed with home draws in the two major FA competitions - against Winsford, Morpeth or Curzon Ashton in the Cup and against Blyth Spartans in the League Cup.
So far, manager John Davison has made no signings to augment the squad which finished last season and all of whom have re-signed, with two exceptions.
Left-back Ben Johnson, who never held down a regular place, has joined Leek Town and Northwich-based reserves goalkeeper Kevin Whitehead looks likely to join Warrington Town.
'No-one else has left, at least not yet, and no certain newcomers. There are still eight weeks to go before the season,' said Davison.
'There are several trialists for us to have a good look at and I dare say there will be players who think they will be playing at a higher standard only to find out nearer the time they won't be.
'We want to be in a position to pick up one or two if necessary.'
Albion's main target is Kidsgrove Athletic midfielder Ryan Baker, but Davison is having trouble making meaningful contact with the club. Hard-up Kidsgrove's £5,000 asking price is likely to prove a stumbling block.
Albion's first-choice goalkeeper Paul Gibson is also leaving, though temporarily.
Gibson has been given permission to join Welsh club TNS as a squad member for their UEFA Cup venture against a Swedish club. Because he needs international clearance, his Witton registration has been cancelled but the clubs have a gentleman's agreement Gibson will return before the season starts. Witton's youngsters have drawn Workington at home in the first round of the FA Youth Cup. Former Witton youngster Melford Knight has been given trials by Shrewsbury Town.
