FARSLEY Celtic are already preparing for their first pre-season friendly against Bradford City – but their squad is not complete.

Celts boss Neil Parsley said: "The players started training last Monday and they were in on Thursday and will do their third session on Saturday.

“We didn’t have a full compliment of players because it’s sometimes difficult for part-time players at this time of year.

"Due to holidays, a stag party and work commitments, we were probably down to half.

“The second session was better in terms of numbers, and by the weekend we should be close to having them all back."

He added: "We have signed Neil Stevens and Nick Guest, so we have two new players in but have lost four from last season.

“We are negotiating with some potential targets and there is room in the squad for three or four more but it's hard going.

"Talks with players are always difficult because there are so many factors in their decisions but we are hoping to make some announcements soon.”

Defenders Mikey Aspin and Matt Dempsey have both departed to seek new challenges while Gibraltar international striker Adam Priestley and the versatile Spencer Harris have already signed for new clubs.

Stevens returns to Throstle Nest for a second spell and Parsley snapped up Guest after he plundered 38 goals for Hemsworth MW last season.

The return from injury of former Bradford Park Avenue and FC Halifax Town defender Aaron Hardy is also a plus ahead of the forthcoming Evo-Stik Division One North season.

Parsley said: “It’s good to welcome Azzer back into the fold. It will almost be like another new signing because the (hip) operation he went through last year is a very serious one for a footballer.

“He has worked hard in his rehabilitation and he will be a great benefit to the club. He is a very, very good footballer and brings experience back to the side.

“It will be a tough division again next season but we’re ready for the battle.

"It’s all about the preparation now, and everything is in place.

"We’ll get through this next six weeks or so and pitch straight into the new season. We’ll all be ready for it.”