Andy Sinton pleased with AFC Telford fitness

AFC Telford United boss Andy Sinton believes his players might be able to steal a march on their Blue Square Bet Premier league rivals with their improved fitness.

The Bucks boss has been pleasantly surprised with the way his side is shaping up for the new season and heaped praise on his players for returning in such good nick.

"The players have come back stronger and they are all chomping at the bit," he said.

"It's a credit to those who we have kept on that they have come back in such good shape.

"Whisper it quietly, but they are probably ahead of where I expected them to be.

"But other clubs who are full-time are coming back this week and are training twice a day so we know we have work to do to stay ahead but being fitter and stronger can only help us in the season.

"We gave the players seven weeks off and the ones who were with us have had a fitness programme to keep to and they are all looking really sharp and that is a huge credit to the players."

Meanwhile, Sinton is still looking to bring in more new faces ahead of the league season getting under way on August 11.

"It's no secret that we are looking for a targetman and a back-up goalkeeper," added Sinton.

"We potentially need a bit more cover in midfield as well but we are prepared to wait to bring in the quality we are looking for.

"The league clubs have only just gone back this week and already we are getting lists from them on who they might release on loan.

"It is still very early days. We have had a couple of people in training but nothing is signed."

See also:

• Andy Sinton seeks flexibility in AFC Telford squad

• AFC Telford new-boy Jake Reid sets mid-table target

• AFC Telford United seal deal for striker Jake Reid