SHAKERS boss Andy Preece says his players are hungry to avenge last season's relegation after returning to full-time training this week writes Chris Hall

The first team stars were put through their paces with some intensive 400m sprint training to kick-off their pre-season regime ahead of a tough campaign in Division Three.

And Preece admitted he was impressed by the fitness of his truncated squad.

"I'm pretty pleased with all the players," he said.

"They have looked after themselves and come back in good shape as I asked. We checked their times from last pre-season and all of them were inside them, which is a good sign.

"I think the penny has dropped with a few of the lads because hopefully they hurt as much as I do about being relegated to Division Three.

"They are going to have to take more care of themselves this season and we will see the benefits on the pitch.

"Obviously relegation has been a blow but the fact we are getting ready for a new season is a big plus for us and everyone around the club should be buzzing.

"Last season it was doubtful we'd get to this stage but what's gone has gone and we've got to look ahead to the new campaign with the right attitude, which judging by this week, the players are showing."

Preece has also revealed Shakers' squad numbers for the coming season. Goalkeeper Paddy Kenny and top scorer Jon Newby are the only players to retain their numbers after a string of names were released to cut costs.

Squad: 1 Glyn Garner, 2 Matty Barrass, 3 Jamie Stuart, 4 Danny Swailes, 5 Michael Nelson, 6 Lee Unsworth, 7 Chris Billy, 8 Martyn Forrest (Captain), 9 Gareth Seddon, 10 Ian Lawson, 11 Andy Preece, 12 David Nugent, 13 Paddy Kenny, 14 Paul O'Shaughnessy, 16 George Clegg, 17 Steve Redmond, 19 Eddie Tarsus, 20 Nicky Hill, 21 Lee Connell, 22 David Borley, 23 Gary Evans, 29 Jon Newby