WORCESTER City boss Carl Heeley has said his side are ‘miles ahead’ of where they were 12 months ago as they prepare to kick off their Vanarama Conference North campaign this weekend.
Heeley oversaw a summer of turmoil last year as a mass exodus of first team players rocked the Blue and Whites.
But a change in fortunes has seen the core of last season’s squad commit themselves to the campaign ahead, including Jose Veiga, Ellis Deeney, George Williams, Tyler Weir, Graham Hutchison and Wayne Thomas.
Ahead of their Aggborough opener with Stalybridge Celtic on Saturday, Heeley said: “One of the things we said is it’s tough and it’s challenging.
“It’s a real tough league we’re in and this year will be tougher than last, I have no doubt. There’s a lot of teams having a real good push for it this season.
“When you look at the teams being promoted and relegated they’re making some quality additions but I’d like to think, certainly where we were last summer, we are miles ahead of that in direct comparison.”
City will be looking to improve on last season’s 15th placed finish and have recruited former striker Mike Symons, Danny Jackman, Connor Gudger, Jacob Rowe and Nathan Vaughan to help their cause.
“When you bring in a few new players you need to look at the balance, we’re a little bit light on forwards and we’re trying to look at that,” Heeley added.
“Invariably you’re going to look at an area and say ideally I’d like a bit more but it’s not always possible.
“We’ll get as competitive as we can but overall we’re pleased with the signings we’ve made and we’re looking forward to it.”