TIM Langford goes into his first full season of management with no illusions about the task that faces him.

Stourport Swifts were rightly proud of a top-eight finish in their first Dr Martens League Western Division campaign.

But it is well known that second seasons at a higher level often prove to be more tricky.

Player-boss Langford concedes he needs to add three more quality players to his squad, especially as five substitutes can be named this season.

And his chairman Chris Reynolds confessed: "I think it will be tougher this season. People don't know what you are about when you play them for the first time.

"You tend to take opponents by surprise and the motivation is there for players, some who are at that standard for the first time.

"But this season will be a bit of a testing time. Really a top-half finish and we will probably have done well again.

"A good run in the cups is also going to be financially very beneficial."

Langford admitted he was expecting a tough challenge but remains positive about Swifts' chances.

He said: "It's going to be a lot harder but I'm grateful we've mostly kept the squad together.

"During the season, I expect I will have to look at bringing in loan players and more quality as well.

"But good players don't become bad overnight and I see no reason why we shouldn't be there or thereabouts in the league.

"Taunton and Merthyr are new clubs in the division with good catchment areas for spectators and I expect them to do well along with possibly Solihull and Weston again."

As for new players, Langford has a number of irons in the fire but ideally wants a midfielder and two strikers.

He is giving a trial to young Richard Jones, a left wing-back who has played for Telford United's youth team and for Shifnal Town in the Alliance.

The manager continued: "We also have a striker with us who wants to play at a higher level but we shall see what develops."

Swifts' trialists should be involved in Saturday's first pre-season friendly at Halesowen Harriers (3pm).

Defender Steve Ulfig will be one player missing as he is on holiday.

On a personal note, Langford has found the manager's role tougher than expected.

He added: "Initially, I was thrown in at the deep end. And when the season ends, you finish as a player and pick those boots up again for pre-season.

"But as a manager you seem to be busier than ever! Because I still want to play, I have to work on my fitness as well. It's all a learning curve for me."

Go to the Stourport Swifts' website for lots more news from Walshes Meadow.