Jones starts player search

8:32am Friday 16th May 2008

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TAUNTON Town manager Ian Jones has already started his search for new players.

The former Mangotsfield United and Chippenham Town keeper has contacted "three or four players" in a bid to strengthen the squad.

However Jones, who took over as boss in December following the departure of Gary Domone, said he will not be releasing any players and that it will be up to players to fight for their places.

Taunton finished fifth from bottom in Division One (S&W) of the British Gas Business League, but Jones is keen for his side to challenge for a play-off spot next season.

He said: "I will be bringing in new players and have already spoken to three or four.

"But at this time of year, players are reluctant to commit so I won't be able to confirm anything for a while.

"I won't be getting rid of any players so it will be up to the lads who finished the season in the side to fight for their places.

"As far as I know all the players are keen to stay with us."

Jones has already fixed up two pre-season friendlies at Wordsworth Drive, against Peninsula League side Elburton Villa (July 30) and BGB Premier outfit Yate Town (August 5).

Taunton begin to pre-season training in the last week in June.

WELLINGTON Reserves player-manager John Norman, who broke his leg during the season, has stepped down as boss to concentrate on playing.

The club hope to make an appointment at this Sunday's committee meeting.

Meanwhile, Wellington are hoping to pull their third team out of the Taunton Saturday League and join the reserves in the Devon and Exeter League.