Boss Andy Sinton is planning a cull of AFC Telford United trialists as the new Blue Square Bet North season draws nearer.

Sinton has cast an eye over more than a dozen hopefuls during training and friendlies – including last night’s 0-0 draw at Shropshire neighbours Shifnal Town.

But he believes the focus must change going into the last two weeks before the season starts on August 14 – and is now planning a more settled squad.

Alex Meechan, Will Richards and Martyn Naylor have all agreed terms in principle, while Sinton is planning to hold further talks with midfielder Richard Davies and winger Tyree Clarke.

But he admits few others caught his eye in last night’s slightly disappointing game.

Swiss Cameroonian Kevin Vogeli could get another chance, but winger Aaron Dillon, from Derby County, is unlikely to be back after struggling to make an impression in his 45 minutes.

Exciting

West Brom man Dwayne Samuels failed to show, opting instead to take up the offer of a trial with Blue Square Bet Premier side Grimsby Town.

“Tyree Clarke, when he came on for half an hour, showed he could be exciting,” said Sinton.

“He gives the team a little bit of pace and impetus and he’s one I’m still speaking to. Not many others, on last night’s showing, have done enough to make me think they are better than what we have already got.”

One who could feature in the long run is experienced centre-back Karl Broadhurst – though Sinton wants to see him closer to full match fitness before he makes a final decision.

“Karl did well last night and he’s a good player, but he’s done very little pre-season training. He’s one I’ll certainly be wanting to keep within the club but I won’t be making him an offer in the next few days.”

By CHRIS HUDSON