Cheltenham Town FC

"It's brilliant to bring Trevor (Carson) in. It has taken me a bit of time because he's been away on honeymoon so the deal was done last week but I couldn't get anything confirmed. We had given each other our words but you always want to make sure. We're really pleased because we lost Scotty so all of a sudden you're looking for something different and it's something we have had to be concerned with over the last few years. He is the right age, the right type and I am absolutely delighted we have managed to get him.

"The players were in for a few days last week. It wasn't so much testing but it was to get them ready for this week. I have been speaking to a few lads and they were a bit sore on Tuesday but that's why they were in - to get them into good shape. Ian (Hutton) said they worked really hard, did what he asked of them and that will serve them well going forward.

"We have a fitness session this morning and a football session this afternoon. That's why they were in last week and they have a fitness test at the University of Gloucestershire tomorrow. The first couple of weeks are about fitness, endurance and making sure the base is there to work from but we will also do a lot of team stuff early one. I'm looking forward to it because we have changed a few things but we want a good start to the season and a good pre-season.

"We have a got a couple of wingers from non-league on trial because they are getting a bit of interest. We also have a midfielder from Nottingham Forest who has been recommended to me. It's interesting to have a look at them, get them some game time and see if they can fit into our squad. I'm not afraid where we take players from because the team will be about the team and not individuals. That will be our thinking all season. It will be about improving individuals to improve our team.

"Neal Trotman is training with us. We want to have a look at him for a few days to see if we fit and we'll go from there.

"The pro licence was a really interesting course and there was some good work done and ticked off. It's all stuff I have been implementing over the last 12 months anyway so it's just a continuation of that really.

"I'm delighted Shaun (North) is onboard and ready to go because I enjoy working with him. We'll just do the best we can, as we always do, but Shaun is a fresh voice and hopefully it'll go smoothly.

"We haven't gone for star names because our budget dictates it but I am trying to bring in the best and well balanced squad I can get. We are trying to find some hidden gems that I think we have already got and that I think will come good for us and one of two additions that will make us strong. We are and will be about the team and the players will have to buy into that. It's going to be all about pulling together as one and that collectively we're as good and as competitive as others.

"I am constantly on the phone to try and do things and I need to sort a few things out with the chairman but things take time. We are working on a budget and it's one I have to stick too. It's important I keep pushing them as they ask but sometimes it takes a little longer than you would ideally like."