Boss Dave Hoole cannot wait to build his own Matlock Town squad

Hoole was promoted from being in charge of Town’s reserves just before Easter after the departures of former first team joint bosses Glenn Kirkwood and Craig Hopkins and by then the transfer deadline had passed leaving no room for manoeuvre with regard to player movement.

His summer dealings have already seen the departures of Joe Doyle-Charles to Coalville Town and more recently striker Marc Newsham to Sheffield FC while this week forward Harry Limb, brought in on loan from Burnley last term, joined King’s Lynn Town following his release from the Clarets.

New arrivals are defender Jan Yeomans, midfielders Harry Vince, Marcus Marshall and, Jerry Nash plus winger Jordan Chappell. Hoole hopes to announce another signing within the next seven to ten days.

“I’m happy with the way things are going and I have the personnel we wanted with the signings so far” said Hoole.

“It’s enjoyable but it’s also hard work, I don’t think people sometimes realise the hard work that goes in from a number of people in getting lads signed on.

“Competition for players is fierce, in fact I’ve spoken to a number of managers at this level already and they’ve said with players contracts and the like they’ve never known it as fierce.

“We’re looking at lads that are coming not just because of the money but have the desire to play for Matlock Town and understand the style of football we play.

I‘m hopeful that approach will pay off.”

One or two key positions need to be filled within the Gladiators squad.

“We’re in talks with a couple of goalkeepers and in particular a striker to join Shaun (Harrad). We need someone who’s different from Shaun, it’s a case of quality not quantity,” Hoole added.

“I can understand fans are eager for signings to be announced, I’m hoping we can announce something on the striking front soon, but it’s a waiting game and it’s a matter of sometimes being patient. Hopefully the wait will be worth it.”

Hoole’s former post in charge of the reserves has been advertised by the club this week.

“It’s a very important role, the club must choose very carefully,” he added.

“Whoever comes in will need to be self motivated and be able to buy in to the role of youth and the academy here. It’s also a matter of buying in to the style of play of the first team, they will need to have a great knowledge of football and the way we play. It’s a great appointment for anyone and in future years could lead to a managerial appointment at first team level somewhere.”

Matlock have announced a further home pre season friendly against a Mansfield Town eleven on Tuesday July 17 (7.30 pm). Meanwhile following a 12 points deduction imposed on Rushall Olympic after the season ended, Matlock rose a position in the final standings for 2017/18 to finish in 15th spot.