Avenue have had a mixed bag of results in their pre-season schedule but the performances have been consistent and that has pleased manager Benny Phillips.

The pressure is squarely on Phillips' shoulders, with expectations unusually high at Horsfall Stadium this season, but the new owner, local businessman Bob Blackburn, has been true to his word.

As chief executive he has made money available for the team boss and has improved the stadium and facilities during the close season. Phillips feels he has invested the war chest wisely and demands promotion from his assembled squad.

Tomorrow's pre-season fixture against Silsden at Cougar Park - Avenue's sixth but their first away from home - gives Phillips a rare opportunity. In the other five friendly games the manager has been bedding in his new recruits.

"I know my team, I know which two centre backs I will use most and which strike pairing will give us the best return of goals," says Phillips confidently.

"What I need to do in tomorrow's game and next Wednesday's at Liversedge is to give players the chance to earn a deal with us. Most of the squad is in place but there are a few places still up for grabs."

Supporters who were largely unimpressed with last week's trialist goalkeeper Franchech may be glad to hear regular custodian Jon Worsnop does have another rival to ensure he stays on his toes.

Phillips explained: "Matt Boswell will be coming back to the club. My assistant Lee Coathup has been in regular contact with him and he has trained with us. We can reveal now that Matty has signed.

"That is good news because it was a position we were looking to strengthen. The lad who came off the bench last Saturday has looked very good in training, he has high fitness levels and stopped everything the lads could fire at him.

"But training is different to a match atmosphere. The pressure is totally different and the character of the individual is laid bare.

"I am not going to make a decision after watching a player for 30 minutes but Boswell coming back to the club puts me in the comfort zone and gives any prospective keeper even more work to do in order to impress.

"Other positions will take as much thought. I have to narrow down the contenders for central defence, full back - left and right - midfield and forwards.

"Things should be a lot clearer when we head to Bangor next Saturday for our final warm-up game and an overnight stay which will boost morale and togetherness among the squad."