New signing - Danny Slatter with one his new additions, Jordan Blackwell, who has joined from AFC Sudbury

STANWAY Rovers boss Danny Slatter believes his ambitious club are back with a bang.

The Hawthorns outfit have announced a string of new arrivals, including well-known trio Craig Hughes, Jake Plane and Jamie Shaw.

They will be plying their trade in the Thurlow Nunn League premier division again next season, having been moved sideways from the Essex Senior League.

And having signalled their intent with so many additions to the squad, Slatter is feeling enthusiastic and hopeful for a positive campaign ahead.

“On and off the pitch, the club are really thriving,” said the 38-year-old, who took over at the end of last season and replaced Terry Spillane.

“Everyone’s pulling in the same direction and it really feels we’re going places.

“We’ve been working hard in terms of recruitment, putting the feelers out in terms of potential signings.

“We’ve missed out on a few but the majority have agreed to come on board, so that’s very pleasing and positive.

“I’ve got the players I wanted and more are coming along for pre-season training.

“I want to play my part in putting the club back on the map.

“When I was a player here, the club got lots of coverage and it was hard to keep us out of the local media, because of the success we had in the league and Vase.

“But for various reasons, we’ve maybe slipped off some people’s radar a bit in the last couple of years.

“That’s one of the reasons we wanted to be so open about the players we’re hoping to bring to the club.

“It’s not a question of bragging or being boastful – we just want to be pro-active on social media and show everyone that we really want to give it a go next season.

“Recruiting players is a sign of intent and it shows that off the pitch there’s a good vibe, with good, decent people running the club.

“There’s a positive feel about the place and all we want is to progress, move forward and finish as high as possible next year.”

Slatter has personal reasons for looking forward to the season.

This is his first managerial appointment and he is excited to be at the helm of a club he previously played for, working alongside close friend and director of football Angelo Harrop.

“This is an exciting opportunity for me and a big challenge,” he said.

“I know I’m under pressure but you’re going to get that wherever you go.

“I was an honest player and I’m going to continue that in terms of my management style.

“Hopefully the players will respect that and enjoy playing for me.”