QUENTIN TOWNSEND will include new signing Joe Adams in what he believes will be the strongest squad he has selected since becoming Pershore Town manager.
Pershore fought off interest from several clubs to sign midfielder Adams from Highgate United, persuading him to drop down a level as manager Townsend looks to start building the foundations for next season.
Adams is set to make his debut on Saturday when Pershore host Coventry Copsewood in the start of what Townsend considers to be a vital run of eight games to push towards the top half of the table in the Midland League Division One.
“With Joe having played a league above, hopefully he will give us a bit of composure,” said Townsend.
“There were a few clubs interested in him, including his former club Studley, so we’re delighted he has decided to come to us. He is a real ball player who will help us create more chances.”
Townsend says signing a striker remains a priority and he was disappointed to miss out on one would-be signing, but neither will he make any panic signings.
Highlighting the recruitment of Adams and fellow new boy Oliver Casey, Townsend says any newcomers will be with a view to next season.
“I won’t bring in just anyone,” said Townsend. “I want to bring in players who will be with us next season as well. There’s no point bringing anyone in for a couple of months and then to have to rebuild again.
“Finding a striker is a priority. We need someone to take the pressure of Danny Ludlow who has been scoring all our goals, playing out wide.
“Jacob Snape is our only out-and-out striker so we do need other options.”
Having had last weekend’s match at Studley postponed, Pershore will have more options to face Copsewood.
As well as Adams, former Southam player Chris Bright is also in contention for his first appearance in a Pershore shirt, having recovered from injury.
“We should be a full strength to face Copsewood,” said Townsend.
“This is the strongest squad I’ve had available since I’ve been at Pershore. Inevitably, there have been changes in the last few months since I came in as manager so let’s see how we’re shaping up.”
Although his side lie 16th in the table, Townsend sees the run of games in the next few weeks as the chance to climb the table.
“Apart from playing Lichfield City, from the top five, the next eight games are against team in and around us in the table,” said Townsend. “They are all really winnable games and it’s a chance to really build some momentum
“Four wins is the minimum target and I think we are more than capable of getting the points.”
