Ryan's Looking Forward to Salford City’s Pre-Season

Salford City Director of Football, Ryan Giggs, has shared his thoughts on the upcoming pre-season, with the club gearing up for their July friendlies.

“I think it’s about 14 weeks from the last game to the first game of the new season. That’s a long break, so you have to keep ticking over and try to maintain your fitness," Giggs explained.

“The players had a couple of weeks to wind down and not do much, but then they start getting into their programmes, gradually building up as we approach pre-season.

"I don’t think it will be easy under Karl. I hear he’s planned beach runs for when we go to Ireland, so the lads will need to return in pretty good shape.”

On the squad front, Salford City recently confirmed that Dan Chesters' loan move has been made permanent. Giggs is particularly excited about Chesters' potential development at The Peninsula Stadium.

“I don’t think we saw the best of him last season because he wasn’t playing in his normal position. He’s a wide man who can play as a number 10, but he was often forced to play at wing-back and right-back, which aren’t his usual roles.

"He did a good job, though, and he’s a bubbly character, great to have in the dressing room. He’s a really good lad, and I can see him having a standout season because of his attributes.”

Another key addition to Karl Robinson's squad for the upcoming season is Cole Stockton, who agreed to terms with the club last week.

"He’s not just a goalscorer; his all-round play is really good. We’ve brought in a player we believe will offer something different and will provide us with the goals that Matt gave us for three years.

"Goalscorers don’t grow on trees, so we’re delighted to secure Cole. He’s proven himself at a higher level and at this level, so as long as we create chances for him, he will score goals."