Wright's Steelmen taking shape ahead of their return

Charlie Wise will be staying on with Corby Town for next season

Corby Town’s squad for next season looks set to take further shape this weekend.

Returning manager Tommy Wright will bring his players together for the first time for a training session at Steel Park on Saturday.

Over the past week, the Steelmen have been confirming their retained list as they bid to launch another promotion challenge whenever the new Southern League Division One Central campaign gets under way.

The likes of Gary Mulligan, Elliot Sandy, Jordon Crawford, Sam Warburton, Steve Diggin, Charlie Wise, Ryan Robbins and Curtis Hartley are all staying on for next season while it is expected that midfielder Jake Duffy and goalkeeper Craig Hill will also be added to that list.

One player who won’t be returning is James Ireland after Wright confirmed the attacking midfielder is joining United Counties League side Harborough Town.

But Wright has been busy in the transfer market and could unveil some new additions once the squad gets together for the first time since his return on Saturday.

The Steelmen have been knocking on the promotion door in the last two seasons.

Steve Diggin has been included in Corby Town's retained list

They were beaten in a dramatic play-off final at Bromsgrove Sporting last year and were on course to, at least, secure another shot at the play-offs last season until things were halted and, ultimately, voided due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

But Wright believes the squad are “champing at the bit” for next season as he targets automatic promotion.

“I am really happy with the way things are coming together,” the Corby manager said.

“I think everyone will be champing at the bit and I think they will believe they can go and win this league, which is what I want them to do.

“The lads are all looking forward to getting together on Saturday.

“There might be one or two affected by the lockdown in Leicester but the majority of the boys will be there.

“The idea of Saturday is to get the boys back together, get the footballs out and get smiles on faces.”

The Steelmen, meanwhile, have been mourning the loss of club volunteer Robin Webster.

Robin could be found manning the season ticket gate at home games and supported the club home and away for many years.