MOSSLEY FC's preparations for next season's latest Evo-Stik League Division One North tilt are well under way.

At this early stage there appears to have been few changes to the playing squad - despite last term's almost constant struggle to steer clear of the relegation zone - while joint-managers Peter Band and Lloyd Morrison are enthusiastically looking forward to what will be a fifth season in charge at Seel Park.

Band and Morrison clearly still enjoy their joint roles with the Lilywhites, with neither contemplating leaving the well-run community club.

Band said: "It wasn't our best season last time around, but we were safe with a couple of games to spare.

"A lot of coaches and managers seem to always think there's something better for them elsewhere, but Lloyd and I are really happy at Mossley and so we're looking forward to another season.

"The squad has a good look about it at this stage.

"We've got a lot of lads ready to join us for pre-season training again, which starts on July 1 at Styal.

"We'll then move back to our regular training base at Wright Robinson College.

"There's only Tom Pratt who has definitely left the club. He's gone to Trafford and we wish him well."

Three of our most high-profile players have signed new contracts. They are central midfielder Elliot Harrison (who impressed while on loan from FC Halifax Town at the back end of last season), striker Liam Ellis (who also showed much potential since arriving at Seel Park) and player of the year, central defender and captain Tom Dean, who is described by Band as "one of the best centre-halves in the league."

Chris Appleton has also been added to the Lilywhites coaching staff. Chris has previous experience in management, coaching and goalkeeper coaching. for Airbus UK Broughton, Penycae FC, Witton Albion, Barnton FC and most recently Winsford United. He has UEFA B Coaching qualification and FA Level 3 Coaching Goalkeepers.

The Lilywhites' pre-season friendly fixture list has been confirmed. We open with a home game against Curzon Ashton on Tuesday, July 11. We then travel to Rochdale Sacred Heart on July 18, host Northwich 1874 on July 22, go to Winsford on July 25, welcome Stalybridge on July 29, go to Abbey Hey on August 1 and are at home to Farsley Celtic on August 5. The new season kicks-off on August 12.