Hednesford Town manager Rob Smith has stated how delighted he is at the capture of two exciting signings from Skrill North rivals Brackley Town this week, but also admitted that with the budget of some teams in the division this year he has to show a degree of patience to secure new signings.

Smith, so devastated at the last gasp play-off defeat to Altrincham back in May, has moved quickly to re-sign a number of players from last year but believes the capture of Steve Diggin and Glenn Walker can refresh his squad ahead of preseason.

‘I have spent a lot of time trying to get these two to the club and I’m delighted they have chosen us. They believe we are the right club for them and it’s not about the money. Their attitudes are refreshing and they will easily blend in with the current crop. Glenn is an outstanding talent, and Steve is a proven goal scorer, I’m genuinely over the moon getting these lads.

‘I have a set strategy for transfers but the hard part is persuading players to come. Financially, some of the money being thrown around by clubs this year is beyond belief; we are not in that sort of league so have to be cute and patient.’

Despite the struggles against so called ‘bigger’ teams and certainly bigger budgets, Smith admits he is content with the squad he has signed up so far.

‘I’m fairly happy, there’s still a few players to sort out which I will endeavour to do next week but it’s nice to be able to have a solid basis of a squad to take into next season, which undoubtedly will be tougher than last year.’

One player who definitely won’t be returning for another campaign is midfield enforcer and fan favourite Dave Macpherson, who announced his retirement after the Altrincham defeat and Smith was keen to single out praise for a very well respected player.

‘Macca is an outstanding lad who has had two great years at the club. Some of his goals have been really important and he never gave anything less than 100%. A few people raised eyebrows when I brought him in to replace Jay Denny but he has proved me right.’

Keep an eye on the official website and Twitter for further updates ahead of the start of pre-season training in early July as the annual curtain raiser to the campaign, an away trip to AFC Wulfrunians is only a matter of five weeks away.