DUDLEY Town boss Ian Rowe admits he cannot wait for the new season to start after bringing six new faces to the Dell Stadium.
The Robins have had a productive off-season so far and will welcome back nearly all of the squad who finished fifth in the West Midlands Premier Division last term, with Sam Tasker and Matt Marsh the only players to depart.
In addition busy Rowe has brought in centre-back Paul Henley from Willenhall Town, along with forward Chris Busbey from Cradley Town and winger Nicky Dodds from Tividale.
Striker Tom Rowley has joined from Penncroft, while the Robins have also brought in defensive pari Justin Astley and Dan Draisey from Darlaston.
Rowe said: “We’re in quite a healthy position, we have made good signings and theoretically we should be stronger for it.
“To have only lost two players and bringing six in is great. We are just looking forward to getting the season started.”
Rowe hopes to bring in at least two more players before the season kicks off on August 8 and is focused on finding an understudy to long-serving goalkeeper James Pemberton.
He has made an addition to his backroom staff in the shape of goalkeeping coach Ron Evans, who has joined from rivals Gornal Athletic.
Town have also been boosted by player of the season Marvin Nisbett’s decision to remain at the Dell for the coming campaign.
The young striker put in a series of scintillating displays last term, resulting in a nomination for the League’s player of the season award.
Rowe admitted the Robins had to fend off interest in Nisbett from a number of club’s higher up the non-league pyramid, including Unibond South side Willenhall Town.
He said: “There were a lot of clubs interested in Marvin but he has shown great loyalty to us, he went about things the right way.
“It’s great for us and hopefully he can continue where he left off last season.”
The Robins kick-off their pre-season schedule on Monday July 13 against Northfield Town at Tipton Academy (kick-off 7pm).
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