PAUL Cox has wasted no time putting his own mark on the Guiseley squad as he looks to transform the club's fortunes.

This week's loan capture of Stevenage striker Rowan Liburd was his eighth signing since taking the helm at the National League club last month.

He has brought in four defenders, the French duo of Chris M'Bongou and Jean-Yves Koue Niate plus full backs Darren Holden an on-loan Lewis Freestone.

The midfield was bolstered by the acquisition of former Leeds and Rotherham player Simon Lenighan and the attack strengthened by the arrival of Mike Fondop, Liburd and experienced winger Andy Haworth.

Cox said: "With injuries, we were light on numbers and the team virtually picked itself. We needed competition for places and we have got that now."

The new Lions boss, who has also led the switch to full-time training this week, is determined to lift the club away from the relegation zone.

He said: "We mustn't lose sight of where we are. We have won only once in the league and have a minus-18 goal difference – but I have seen in the past week some pleasing signs.

"In the 6-0 FA Cup win over Shildon, the players showed the ruthlessness that is needed. We need to show that in both boxes if we are to start climbing the table.

"We need to turn our draws into wins. In this league, a couple of victories will carry you into mid-table."

One of the new signings already becoming a favourite at Nethermoor is striker Fondop.

The former Oxford City player has now scored three goals in as many games and he is already the club's leading scorer.

"He might have had more goals if I hadn't stopped him from taking the penalties we have had in the last two games," said Cox.

The manager has also seen pleasing signs on the training field and said: "There has been an increase in the quality of the work being done.

"The players now know that if they get into the team, they need to work had to retain the shirt.

"Players know they cannot afford to ease up. If they lose their place, they might not get it back, and that is the sort of environment I want as we strive to drive this club forward."