THE 2021 campaign has not long since finished, but preparations for next year are already underway at Latchford Albion.

Following their North West Men’s League Division One title win, they are expecting to be moved into the Premier Division for next season, which is set to get underway in late February.

With that in mind, the club have taken the decision to have a lengthy pre-season, which got underway at Victoria Park last week.

It is the aim that their early start will give them a head start on their competition and help them adjust to the higher level should their move up the pyramid be confirmed.

Latchford Albion have started pre-season training at Victoria Park

Latchford Albion have started pre-season training at Victoria Park

“When we discussed the idea of an early start, the players were 100% behind the decision,” head coach Martyn Ellis said.

“We want to capitalise on the momentum we are generating and head into this new challenge fully prepared.

“I have coached in the Premier Division so I am aware of what the challenge is ahead.

“The differences are the small margins and by getting additional training sessions, we hope this will be vital to have that little edge which would just get us over the line in close encounters.

“The first training session was just a light run-out but the turnout was fantastic.

“To get so many players on a cold and wet November evening certainly shows to me the players are ready for the next challenge."

Latchford Albion have started pre-season training at Victoria Park

Latchford Albion have started pre-season training at Victoria Park

Training sessions are held every Thursday evening at 8pm on Victoria Park’s new 4G playing surface.

The club are recruiting new players for their open age team – contact Martyn Ellis on 07976777563 or Mike Byron on 07769788995 for more information.