AFC Croydon Athletic boss Ant Williams says promotion to the Combined Counties League Premier Division is the club's aim next season.
The club are entering their third season since forming as a new club in 2012 and won the Lemon Recordings Division One Cup in their first season.
And after bettering their first season finish in the Combined Counties League Division One last year, it's time to go even further.
In the second part of our big interview with the manager, Williams welcomed a number of trialists to pre-season training recently and gave them a runout against South Park last Saturday, a game in which they lost 4-1 on a 3G pitch.
"Preparations are going well, we started back on June 26, and it seems we are slightly behind other sides," the boss told the Advertiser.
"However, we made the decision to give the lads the right amount of time off and then bring them back fresh to high tempo fun sessions, otherwise it can seem a long old season.
"We held the open trials June 28 and had around 30 lads show up. The quality wasn't as good as the previous two years but perhaps our expectations are getting higher each season.
"We did find three possible lads and we're going to take a longer look at them. They joined in with first team training last week.
"If we get one lad to join the squad then I believe it's a worthwhile exercise. Our aim this season is promotion, it has to be.
"Hopefully returning to Mayfield Road adds pressure, teams will like coming there and a ground like that deserves a higher level of football being played there."
Williams is hoping to retain all of his squad from last season but knows one or two may be tempted by offers elsewhere.
But he does want the same players turning up every week so there is a consistency as well as gelling together on and off the pitch.
"All the players from last season have been invited back, and most have agreed to commit despite some strong interest for clubs higher up," said Williams.
"I think the squad feel we have unfinished business from last season plus the opportunity to get back playing at Mayfield.
"We don't need many new faces but we do need a consistency of 16-18 lads.
"Far too often last season we were forced to make four or five changes every week due to players being unavailable for one reason or another.
"I am looking to add a couple of lads that will bring something different to the side, especially some pace."
If you would like to join AFC Croydon for the forthcoming season, email Williams at manager@afccroydonathletic.co.uk, with the following details: Name, position, contact numbers, area you live in and your previous club(s).
The club are also looking for an U18 manager for next season in the Southern Youth League. Apply with your CV to youth@afccroydonathletic.co.uk.
