Mullets set to host Albion in friendly

Mullets will host the Albion development squad as part of their pre-season preparations in the club’s landmark year on Tuesday, July 27.

The Mill Road side have been told by the Albion that the development team will feature a couple of recognised names and Mullets are also hoping that new Albion first-team manager Sami Hyypia will be in attendance.

Arundel boss Simon Butler said: “It will be really good as it’s our 125th anniversary this year and they (Albion) have said they will help us out and come down with a development team and bring a couple of recognised names as well.

“I am really pleased. Nothing was definite until Thursday when they phoned Bob (Marchant, chairman) to let him know. We are all really looking forward to it and, hopefully, they will bring a few faces.

“We are hoping Sami Hyypia will be there as they would normally be looking at their reserve players and the first team don’t have a game until the Thursday.

“Even the development side get a good following so we are hoping a few will come down.”

It is hoped the friendly will provide a boost in income at the Mill Road club, who were badly affected by flooding last season.

The Albion’s visit marks the midway point in a testing pre-season schedule for Mullets.

They kick things off away to Sidlesham on July 19, before home matches against Worthing and Molesey.

After the Albion match, they are also hosting FA Vase winners Sholing, who are bringing the trophy with them to Mill Road on August 2.

Butler added: “They are tough fixtures, but it will work on our fitness and that’s the way we have gone this year.

“By playing better opposition, it makes the players have to think and work hard.”

Arundel begin their pre-season preparations tonight when the players report for pre-season training.