Excitement is building at Stanley as the new League Two season is set to kick off. John Doolan is gearing up for his first full season as coach alongside Ged Brannan, who made a return to the club over the summer.
The team has undergone some changes, with Ash Hunter being the latest addition to the Wham Stadium. Local talent Alex Henderson, who impressed with his performances last season, is looking forward to the challenge as they prepare to face Doncaster Rovers on Saturday.
Henderson expressed his optimism, stating that the team is in high spirits and the atmosphere at the club has been fantastic since their return. He mentioned that all the new signings have integrated well into the squad, and they are all eager for the season to begin.
Reflecting on the pre-season preparations, Henderson highlighted the importance of managing minutes and facing tough opponents in preparation for the upcoming matches. He mentioned that despite a previous loss against Doncaster, the team is determined to set things right this time around.
For Henderson, this pre-season has been different as he secured a new three-year contract at the end of the previous term. He emphasized the significance of maintaining a starting position in the team, especially with the arrival of new talented players.
As a local player, Henderson expressed his joy at playing for the team he supported growing up, with friends and family now watching him live his dream on the pitch. He acknowledged the need to consistently perform well to have a successful season.
Another player, Connor O’Brien, also signed a new contract after an impressive performance in the last season. O’Brien had a busy summer, receiving his first call-up to the Ireland Under-21 squad and gaining valuable experience playing against top-level competition.
O’Brien credited his time with Stanley for preparing him for international duty and boosting his confidence to compete at a higher level. He highlighted the impact of playing alongside and against top players, which has motivated him to strive for improvement in the upcoming season.
Overall, both Henderson and O’Brien are looking forward to the challenges and opportunities that the new season will bring. With a mix of experienced players and promising talents, Stanley is poised for an exciting campaign ahead.
