By Kevin Redsull

Deal Town manager Derek Hares is more than satisfied with the way his pre-season campaign is panning out.

As Deal prepare for the start of the Kent League season a week on Saturday, Hares, pictured, admits he has more players competing for places than he has had at any other time during his seven years in charge.

Wins against Milton & Fulston (7-0) and Basingstoke Town (2-0) in his side’s opening two friendlies have only added to Hares’ sense of well-being.

He said: "I know you can’t read too much into friendlies but you can’t ask for much more than nine goals and none against.

"Although Basingstoke played some lovely passing football at times, we defended well and at the moment I have got more players competing for places than I have ever had before."

Among the new faces in the line-up against Basingstoke were former Whitstable midfielder Nick Bagley, goalkeeper Mark Beresford and left-sided player Elliot Payne from Thanet. Former Deal defender Roy Guiver also wants to rejoin the club.

Deal are at home to Ryman League, Premier Division Billericay Town on Saturday in what will be their last pre-season game.