Cheltenham Town FC

The Cheltenham Town assistant manager arrived at the Abbey Business Stadium this morning to pick up brand new equipment for the training ground in preparation for the players' return later in the week. 

He's in full control of club affairs while Mark Yates is away in Turkey for his Pro License course and Neil revealed that good progress was being made in the transfer market ahead of pre-season.

"There has been some very good progress," he admitted.

"You know how we do business and we don't announce things until it is done but we are a fair way down the line with a couple of things. It has been fairly quiet I must admit but a lot of managers have said that but it's starting to build up now and some business is being done."

So progress is being made off the field but Cheltenham Town have already turned heads with two key signings in Jamie Cureton and Troy Brown.

Jamie was the second top goalscorer in the league last season and Troy, at the age of 22, has a promising future at the Abbey Business Stadium. With further key signings likely to come over the next few weeks, Neil declared himself happy with the players already brought into the squad.

"I'm absolutely delighted with the signings made already. 

"Jamie's record last season was second to none and he caused us so many problems away at Exeter. Troy Brown is a good young defender and I think he has the potential to kick on again and play at a higher level. He looks hungry and that he's ready to have a good season with us."

Both Jamie and Troy will meet up with their new team-mates later this week when the players return to the training ground on Thursday.

Howarth explained that the first few days will be all about fitness and getting the players back into the groove but he also admitted it had been nice to take a break this summer although he couldn't wait to get out on the training pitches with the squad.

"I've had a lovely time off but you do get bored at home kicking your heels and falling out with the wife and kids!" he laughed.

"Everyone know's this isn't a proper job anyway because it's playing football with your mates and I can't wait to get back. We've had two very long seasons and you do need a physical and mental break, especially the players. Mentally the staff do too but the phone is always on but after a couple of weeks you are chomping and just want to get back to it. 

"We are back on Thursday and it'll be great."