AFC Telford to train harder for premier season

AFC Telford United are set to crank up their training sessions next season to cope with the rigours of Blue Square Bet Premier football, writes JAMES GARRISON.

The Bucks have largely adopted a two nights a week training policy since their formation seven years ago.

But, now they have sealed a return to the top level of non-League football, plans are afoot to step up their training regime.

"We have done a few three evenings a week this season but making that a more regular thing is something we will look at now," said assistant manager Darren Read.

"A lot will depend on the schedule we have, but we may also look to get them in on the odd Sunday to get the previous day's game out of their legs and go through the DVD while it is fresh in their mind."

While Read accepts it will be a challenge to compete with ex Football League clubs like Wrexham, Stockport and Lincoln next term, he is confident the step up to a higher level will not be dramatic.

"You have got clubs who can recruit players from the Football League and have the chance to train day in day out," he added.

"Our lads will have to train one night and go to work the next morning.

"But, with the rest of the clubs, I don't think the difference between Blue Square North and Blue Square Premier is massive so we are confident we can sustain ourselves at the higher level."

Read and boss Andy Sinton will continue talks with their promotion-winning squad today as they formulate their retained list and finalise plans for pre-season training.