WITH three pre-season training sessions complete, manager Jody Bevan is pleased with progress to date as he continues a busy summer on and off the pitch ahead of the 2018/19 season, writes Chris Tanner.

The Reds are just under two weeks away from their first pre-season warm-up fixture, at Faringdon Town on Tuesday 10th July.

Speaking after Tuesday night’s training at Cinder Lane, Bevan said: ““We have had three sessions so far and I have been pretty happy with what I have seen. There have been reasonable numbers for all sessions and the lads have shown a great attitude.

“Pre-season is never easy – particularly the first few sessions which are all about assessing fitness levels. I joined in the one session myself and I was delighted that nobody was behind me in the running so that’s an improvement on last season!”

Bevan confirmed new recruits will a part of the squad for the new season, although they will be added to the core of the 2017/18 group.

“Most of the squad from last season are on board for next season with two or three still considering their options.

“I’ve been around for long enough to know that pre-season can be a bit like a meat market and players will trade clubs off against each other. I have no intention of being part of that circus and don’t propose to start announcing new signings until we have the squad photo in the final week of pre-season.”

He added: “What I can say is that I am extremely confident that we will be in decent shape come the first league game of the season. I will be using the first couple pre-season games to look at as many players as possible before starting to mould the squad with a view to the start of the season.”

Fairford Town are offering FREE entry to all supporters for their forthcoming pre-season friendlies against Cirencester Town (Tuesday 17th July, 7.45pm) and Swindon Supermarine (Tuesday 24th July, 7.45pm). Parking is free on site with both bars and SPIKES Diner open.