Peter Jackson is chasing a keeper as part of his City rebuild but it won’t be Darlington’s Sam Russell.

The 28-year-old, who kept 19 clean sheets last season, is out of contract with the FA Trophy winners. But Jackson poured cold water on suggestions that he was keen to bring him back into the league.

“I’m on the look-out for a keeper and Sam Russell’s name was mentioned to me,” said Jackson. “But I won’t be taking that one any further.”

Lenny Pidgeley was among the players axed at the end of last season. Jon McLaughlin’s position could also be under threat with Jackson hunting around for another stopper.

City fans are ready for an influx of new faces as Jackson looks to build his own squad. Ross Hannah was the first signing and the club have declared their interest in making in-demand Clayton Donaldson the star signing.

Jackson has promised a purge of last season’s under-achieving line-up, making it clear that every player still on the books is up for grabs.

He added: “I got rid of 11 when I did the retained list because it had to be done to clear the decks and bring more people in.

“Everybody here on contract now has got a price. It might be difficult to shift some but if we can start next season well then things can change.”

But while bracing himself for a busy summer, Jackson expects it to be a gradual process.

He said: “It will go quiet for a while. There won’t be a lot happening for the next three or four weeks because players and managers are away.

“But then we’ll be back for pre-season and players will be entering the club. They don’t all have to be there for the start.

“When I took over Huddersfield, I started pre-season with only seven or eight players and brought another 12 in later. I’ve signed plenty in management the week before the season kicks off.

“It’s not a problem if you haven’t got the whole squad there on day one. Pre-season is all about getting a team ready and fit for the opening game.”