Celts boss Lee Sinnott has swapped the clear blue skies of Egypt and the imposing sights of the pyramids for the navy blue football shirts of his club and an assault on the next level of the pyramid system.

Former Bantams and Huddersfield Town defender Sinnott has taken to management like a duck to the waters of the Suez Canal.

He has hauled Farsley from the UniBond League to the country's fifth division - the recently renamed Blue Square Premier, which was the Conference in old money.

"The family and I enjoyed a very nice break in the Middle East but we flew back on Friday morning and on Sunday I was in negotiation with a player," said Sinnott following his return to his desk while looking forward to the new term.

"The pitch is looking well. After sanding and seeding you are reliant on the elements but we have been fortunate this year.

"Also all the squad from last year have been retained, which was my first objective.

"So despite my absence things have been on-going and I have been in touch with my assistant John Deacey on a regular basis.

"The main signing we have made - Mark Jackson from Rochdale - is a significant one and should be popular as he is from Pudsey.

"Others will follow but there are a lot of discussions to complete first.

"The club are eager to announce other acquisitions but we can't jump the gun.

"Things are coming together. It is a very busy time and almost more stressful than the actual season."

Sinnott's last comment will strike a chord with managers at every level.

The busiest period of their working year is the last few weeks before the season begins.