Eccleshill not just looking to consolidate says Regan

The Eagles went up via the play-offs last season and with that momentum behind them, they believe they can be a serious threat as they kick off with a derby at home to neighbours Thackley.

Regan said: "I'd never consolidate and go into a division just looking to stay up. We've got a strong squad of players so it just depends on how they adapt to the next level, but they have the capabilities.

"We have a big game against Thackley this weekend and it's out on the pitch where the players can judge themselves.

"We have to go into the season with a positive mindset though and we are confident that we can compete against anybody."

In terms of his squad, Regan confirmed that full back Scott Manning will still be out for "a long, long time" with his broken leg, while the influential Matt Mathers is still unable to return to training following injury.

The club also re-signed winger Ben Hardy this summer but a terrible knee injury has put paid to his playing career, although Regan is keen for him to still be involved at Eccleshill in some capacity.

However, last season's player of the year Jonny Irving has returned after 10 weeks out and the manager enthused: "Jonny's back but he's not 100 per cent fit, although he's been playing in pre-season.

"We'll keep monitoring him but he's done well. He's been responsible and taken his time in coming back which has been good for his rehabilitation."

Regan also spoke enthusiastically about his new signings, saying: "There's been a lot of positives with the new lads coming in.

"We've got Ben Grech up front from Worsbrough Bridge Athletic, Jassim Alali from Garforth Town, who looks a great central midfielder, and left back Rhys Thomas from AFC Emley.

"They've done a really good job. We haven't had as many games as I'd like in pre-season but they've settled in straight away. They're all excellent players."