Gainsborough boss Tom Shaw: It's been really enjoyable

Shaw has had to build a squad largely from scratch since being appointed in April but has made some impressive signings so far ahead of the new campaign.

And whilst there are still plenty of gaps that need filling in the squad, Shaw is pleased with the work done so far.

He said: “I’ve really enjoyed things so far but it’s been tough trying to bring in the right players.

"Lots are opting to stay at their clubs due to not having had a full season last year, which I respect, whilst some are being tempted by more money elsewhere.

"But we’ve had nine players so far agree to come because they believe in what we want to do here and like the direction the club is going in, even if financially the offers weren’t as good as elsewhere.

"It’s about making sure those we sign are the right human beings for the club as well as the right footballers, and ensuring they’ll be the right fit for Gainsborough Trinity.”

Whilst acknowledging more recruits will be needed, he is also keen to leave the door open for the club’s younger players to stake a claim for a place in the squad too.

He said: “I don’t want too many players because I’m keen for there to be a pathway for the likes of the U21 squad to be able to earn a place, which has already been the case with two or three young lads who have already earned the right to be looked at in the first team in pre-season.

"I’m very keen on developing players, whether that’s 39-year-old Neal Bishop or a youngster coming through.

"We have irons in the fire and are talking to players and agents all the time, whilst also looking at some loan deals.”

Shaw added the team to face Grimsby Borough in the first friendly next Wednesday will be made up of trialists, with the first team set to feature at Bottesford three days later.