Steyning to strengthen with eye on promotion

The Division 1 side finished tenth last season after struggling for consistency in the league in between some fantastic cup runs.

Manager Alan Skipper enters his second season at the helm this year and is on the look out for new recruits to boost the growing club.

Along with the first team, there will be a reserve team and under-21s side next season, as well as three under-18 teams at the Shooting Field.

Skipper hopes to be in the promotion mix this season and said: “We are talking to certain targets privately, however, it needs to go out there that we are keen to talk to any players who feel like they could strengthen our squad.

“We recognise that with a lot of reserve teams folding across the county league, as well as the usual raft of personnel changes at many clubs, many experienced players could be facing the prospect of not playing as much football as they like.

“Most of our current squad have committed for next season. However it is no secret that as well as developing our under-21s and under-18s and current senior players,we need to be adding extra quality to the squad to push on to the next level.

“If we stand still we will just go backwards. The Premier Division is the aim for the club in the next few years. I know Jason (Pepperell - reserve boss) has strong ambitions for the reserves and under-21 as well.”

The committee, via a couple of sponsors, have committed a small expenses budget for the first team this season and a win related pot for players to help cover the costs they incur this season.

Skipper added: “The spirit is great, its a really friendly club, the coaching structure is strong and I would welcome any players locally getting in touch who feel they have something to offer to help us on our journey.”

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