No bold predictions as Wright's Steelmen aim to hit the ground running

Following their relegation from the Vanarama National League North back in April, the Steelmen now find themselves in the new surroundings of the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Premier Division.

They start in front of their own fans when they take on Matlock Town at Steel Park tomorrow (Saturday).

It has been a summer of change for the Steelmen with a host of new signings coming through the doors.

And Wright is fully expecting his young squad to grow as the season progresses as they bid to make an impact.

“I hope, and I am sure all the fans hope, that we can jump straight back up,” the Steelmen boss said.

“But we aren’t naive. We know it is going to be difficult.

“We are going into the unknown to a certain extent and we have a young squad.

“Our aim is to try to hit the ground running but I am sure we will grow as a team.

“I think everyone has seen what we are capable of during pre-season.

“I obviously want us to have a really good season but there won’t be any bold predictions.

“This is a new league for us and there are some big clubs, good players and good managers in it.

“The main aim for the time being is to try to get off to a good start, especially with us being at home.

“The league table won’t settle down until we reach 10 games but we have a lot to fit in over the next month and that 10-game mark will come round pretty quickly.

“We have put a lot of work in over the summer and now we want to get going.”

Ben Milnes is expected to be fit for the opening game with the only injury doubt being summer signing Femi Orenuga, who picked up a hamstring problem during pre-season.