A clean slate as Ady’s new-look squad takes shape

Adrian Pennock is excited for the new season to get underway with a host of new faces set to rejuvenate the Darts.

The club’s manager aims to have a playing squad of around 16 players ready in the next few weeks, complemented by a number of Academy players who can step up.

And he believes preparation has been key to ensuring he makes the right signings.

He said: “We’ve brought a lot of players in who are good characters. Of course, they are good players too, but I have targeted players who are hungry to do well and want to be part of something exciting.

“A lot of players have left, so we have no baggage and no hangovers from last season.

“We feel it’s a clean slate, so are really excited to get going.”

It’s been a busy close season for Ady, who has been travelling the length and breadth of the country to secure the signings he feels will help get the team back to winning ways.

While some managers might lean on recommendations before bringing in players, Ade has been meticulous in his approach.

He continued: “I have done my homework on the players. I’ve watched lots of videos, have watched or known some in the past, met a lot of them several times and often had a few calls with people I know in the game or former managers, to see what kind of person they are.

“We’ve had players come to look around with their partners and family, so you feel they are here for the right reasons. And so many have been blown away from what we have here. The ground, the facilities, they’re top class.

“But it’s important to get the right people in. I could have signed 20 players a week after the season ended, but I wanted to see if they were really up for this. Now we have a few more pieces of the jigsaw to complete.

“I felt we didn’t have enough leaders, so I am addressing that, but I’m looking at a mix of experience and youth in the team, which I think is crucial.

“I want the players coming in to be hungry and proud to wear the shirt. I have asked them to come on a journey with everyone associated with the club, especially our supporters.”

We’ll be bringing lots more insights from Ade on his new players, preparation and lots more in the coming weeks and going forward, so keep an eye out.

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