MALVERN Town returned to pre season training last week and virtually all of last season's squad were present.

Town General Manager Richard Anson said: "It certainly looks like we have retained all the players we wanted to and there are likely to be one or two additions to the squad.

"There is little doubt in my mind, that had we not lost key players such as Billy Davis, Craig Williams and Dean Roberts, through injury at a critical time last season, we would have not been that far away.

"Certainly, the squad doesn't need major surgery and we are confident of a good season."

Anson has also re-installed Joey Rawle as Town first team coach,

Anson said: "I felt Joey needed a break from a management role last season, but he has loads of qualities that we did not want to lose, and with Neil (Hunt), more than comfortable in the Manager's role, I felt it was time to bring Joey back into the fold."

Town have arranged a number of pre season friendlies, and these include; July 19 Pershore Town, away, 3pm. August 2 Shortwood United, home, 3pm. August 9 Westfields, home, 3pm. August 12 Worcester City XI, home, 7.30pm.

A further friendly at Bewdley Town will also be arranged for a midweek date, but precise timing has still to be decided.