CHESTER City begin their preparations for life in the Blue Square Premier League today, when their players report back for pre-season training.
City, who were relegated from the Football League at the end of last season, are expected to bolster their squad with a number of new signings.
Former Tranmere Rovers and Shrewsbury Town wing-back Neil Ashton has agreed terms and is due to complete contractual formalities this afternoon, while ex-York City midfielder Brett Wilkinson, the son of former England manager Howard, is also expected to put pen to paper.
Striker Gregg Blundell is also set to return to the club, after agreeing a deal following his release from Darlington, while ex-Southport and Doncaster Rovers defender Tim Ryan has also agreed a package.
In what is expected to be a busy day for City’s secretarial department, the former Gretna defender Rhys Meynell is also due to be added to the payroll.
While five players are also due to sign in, two of last season’s relegated squad are poised to leave the club.
Central defender Paul Linwood is due to sign a three-year contract with Grimsby Town this week, while midfielder David Mannix has been allowed to spend a fortnight on trial with a Greek league club.
City are running the rule over a number of trialists in the next week, with an experienced central defender and a commanding striker appearing to be their main priorities.
Chester start their Blue Square campaign with a visit to Grays Athletic on Saturday, August 8, followed by home games against Gateshead and Cambridge United.
City’s new manager Mick Wadsworth, who was handed the managerial role at the Deva Stadium last week, is looking forward to the challenge that awaits him.
He said: “My ambition is to be Chester manager for a very long time. The club needs that kind of stability; it has been through a very rough ride.
“This project is worthwhile and I want to be here for as long as possible.
“I want to work here for a considerable length of time; I want to take us higher than where we have been in the past.
“I think that is a realistic dream to chase.”
Wadsworth continued: “I have worked in the Premier League, I have worked in international football, but the best time of my life has been in the lower leagues, at Carlisle United and Scarborough.
“I know it will be tough, but I am looking forward to getting down to work.”
