The club is in the midst of its centenary season preparations and is looking at some high-profile pre-season warm-up games but Avenue manager Benny Phillips has left one weekend free.

His intention is to take the players for a friendly match away from the spotlight of Horsfall Stadium.

It will be a chance for the new squad to get acquainted.

"We will be playing at Bangor City on Saturday, August 11 and it will mean a couple of days together and I think that is very important," said Phillips.

Avenue are still trying to tie up Premiership giants Newcastle United for a visit to Horsfall Stadium. They hope to add that game to friendly fixtures against new SPL outfit Gretna and neighbours Huddersfield Town and Halifax Town.

Avenue chairman Dr John Dean, a close friend and business associate of his counterpart Julian Rhodes at Bradford City, is also holding out for a big Bradford derby in the close season as he attempts to get the Bantams involved in Avenue's centenary celebrations.

"The overnight stay will help our preparations and bring the squad together. This is something we have wanted to do and Bangor City presented us with the perfect opportunity," added Phillips.

The new-look squad will need games against opposition of a similar level as well as the high-profile friendlies lined up.

Phillips has confirmed that last season's double award-winner Mark Wilson is not the only player heading for the exit door.

Wilson's departure was widely expected as he seeks regular first-team football in his mid-30s.

Following the club's awards evening it has emerged that Scott Jackson, Stevie Ball and Neil Grayston will also be looking for a new club for the coming campaign.

That leaves Phillips with lots of recruiting to do in a short space of time as he builds his team for the new campaign.