GUISELEY boss Mark Bower believes his side's almost unique standing will be a bargaining chip as he looks to rebuild his squad for a second season at the top table of non-League football.

Bower's men only secured their place in the Vanarama National League on the last day of the campaign.

But the manger feels that being one of very few part-time clubs in the top tier – yet no longer the new kids on the block – will make recruitment easier.

Bower said: "We always had plans in place to restructure the squad and targets in mind but we also have limited resources and a strict budget. We have to make our decisions around that.

"We're in a difficult position being in a mainly full-time league and, depending on who comes up from National North, we could be the only semi-pro club for many a mile.

"There will be players available who are in situations where they either don't want to or cannot go full time. I think that means our club will be an attractive proposition to a lot of players and we could benefit from that."

Guiseley released eight first-team regulars last week – including club captain Ben Parker and striker Liam Dickinson, who enjoyed an eventful spell on loan at Bradford Park Avenue in April.

Long-term stalwart Gavin Rothery, Ryan Toulson, Danny Hall and Nicky Boshell have all departed Nethermoor as have Oliver Norburn and James Hurst, who have had brief but bright spells with the Lions.

Bower is now looking to the future and said: "We let a lot of lads go and we have already spoken to various players. I expect a lot of players to become available this summer, so we still have our eyes and ears open.

"The players that have left are all very good players and it's a wrench to see them leave the club. I've not just managed these players, I've played alongside them as well and they are big characters.

"They are good lads and I'm sure that they won't have any trouble finding new clubs and they leave with the best wishes of everyone at the club.

"I appreciate each and every one of them and thank them for their efforts and I know the fans feel the same and will miss them."