There's no rush for Diamonds boss Peaks

The players reported back for pre-season training last night (Wednesday) with boss Peaks conceding it has been a “tough” summer period so far with a number of last season’s squad, which reached the Evo-Stik Southern League Division One Central play-off final, having already departed for pastures new.

The latest one to move on was midfielder Dan Quigley, who has joined King’s Lynn Town while the likes of Andy Hall, Elliot Sandy and Jack Bowen have also signed for other clubs.

But, far from being downhearted, Peaks is looking ahead and Diamonds are expected to confirm names of those who have been retained when they hold their ‘signing day’ on Saturday.

Diamonds will be in the new surroundings of the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Division One South next season with the fixtures due to be released on Friday, July 15.

And Peaks, who had already revealed he has shaken hands on a deal to bring prolific frontman Jake Newman back to the Dog & Duck, said: “It’s been tough to see some of the lads sign for other clubs but that’s the game.

“Dan got an offer he couldn’t turn down and we understand that.

“We have to deal with it, it has been a difficult time but I am confident that by the time the season starts, we will have a strong squad in place.

“I should get a few signed up this weekend and then 
we will be looking at others over the next two or three weeks.

“A lot of players become available at this time of year and I won’t be rushing into anything.

“The players are back in training and it’s all about getting ready for that first game of the season.

“And when it comes to recruitment, it’s about making sure they fit the credentials of the club and myself.

“There are a lot of boxes that need to be ticked.”

Diamonds, meanwhile, are holding volunteer days for ground maintenance at the Dog & Duck on Saturday and Sunday this weekend, starting at 10am on both days.