Farsley Celtic boss Lee Sinnott is in the perfect position to understand what his contemporary Stuart McCall is going through as the new season approaches.

From starting an FA Cup Final at the old Wembley on the substitutes bench - Sinnott with Watford and McCall with Everton - to having played together at Bradford City, the careers of the two friends have several parallels.

Having had four seasons as a manager since taking over at Throstle Nest, Sinnott has already experienced the difficulties which McCall has faced so far in bringing new players in.

"I have been away for a fortnight but, catching up on the T&As I have missed, I understand Stuart has mentioned his frustration," said Sinnott.

"I can relate to that. I'm fully aware of what he is going through because players like to keep their options open right up until the last minute.

"I would just urge him to stay strong and hold out for the players he wants.

"It is a big job for Stuart. He has a lot to implement in a short space of time and I have nothing but sympathy for him.

"I have had four pre-seasons as a manger trying to formulate a squad."

Sinnott, whose team are now just one level below the Bantams after three recent promotions, added: "This is Stuart's first as a boss and he has the added problems of having to start from scratch.

"It will also be a difficulty that Stuart has been working in the Premiership with Sheffield United.

"Most of his contacts will be relating to players in and around that top flight and the players which he has been considering will be of a certain quality.

"I'm not saying he won't be able to convince them to join him but it will be a tough job.

"I know he will be able to sort it out in time. But what he hasn't got is a magic wand.

"In his favour is that he has the status of a legend at Bradford and that should mean he is given the backing from the fans he needs.

"I'm sure he will get Bradford back where they belong.

"He'll do things right and be successful."