Horsham FC players show boss they're hungry for new challenge

The Camping World Community Stadium outfit are looking forward to a second season in the Isthmian League premier division and have started informal training.

And Di Paola is heartened by the desire to get going his players are already showing.

As previously reported in the County Times, he is confident most of the squad who finished the truncated 2019-20 season in sixth place will be back for another Hornets campaign.

Three players – Alex Kelly, Harry Mills and Greg Cundle – are moving on, but Di Paola said that trio remained the only men confirmed as not returning for the new season.

“Obviously we’re still waiting for guidance on moving forward with the season,” he said.

“Steps five and six have had a briefing and there’s been some talk of a September start for them but things are not really any clearer.

“I’d start the season tomorrow if I could but we just have to wait until we’re given the go-ahead.

“This week would normally be the last before we were back, and we’d be arranging friendlies and all sorts of things.”

Di Paola revealed some socially distanced training had started.

“Last Thursday we did a bit at the ground, some running and fitness, but it was socially distanced and very informal.

“It had no real structure to it and was completely optional for players.

“But we had about 11 there and it was a start, and it shows the boys are keen to get going.

“Next thing will be to get the boys doing some five-a-side and go from there. It will take a while to get back to normal.”

Di Paola has a new right-hand man for the new season with Ross Standen having replaced Adam Westwood as his assistant. But the manager has spoken of his wish for as much stability as possible in the team and behind the scenes.

The Hornets expect it to be a tougher campaign than 2019-20 when they surprised many as the new boys.