ANDOVER New Street boss Dean Hutchins says he is “feeling confident” going into the upcoming league campaign after announcing several key signings.

The manager, who took charge of the Foxcotte Park club last month, revealed to the Advertiser this week he has brought in five players ahead of the new Wessex League Division One season.

Included in the list is versatile winger Nathan Rae, who previously played under Hutchins at his former club Stockbridge.

Dominant midfielder Jesse Todd has also agreed to play for New Street next season.

The former Overton man joins from newly promoted Wessex Premier League side Amesbury Town.

Hutchins has also moved to shore up his back line, signing two defenders and veteran goalkeeper Dave Parker.

Andover Town academy product Owen Trapnell comes in as a centre back, while the club has also announced the capture of former Hartley Whitney man Keiran Fuller.

Talking about his new signings, Hutchins said: “I think the squad needed a bit of a freshen up.

“I think it was pretty obvious if you look at the stats from last year that the team were leaking goals left, right and centre and that needed to be addressed.

“I want to build from the back up.”

As well as new signings, Hutchins says he has re-signed several of the club’s first team stars from last season, including young prospect Jayden Englefield.

Andover Advertiser:

(Youngster Jayden Englefield has agreed to stay at New Street this season)

Keiron Le Brun, Ben Matthews, Jake Curtis and Wade Crisp have also all committed to New Street next season.

Hutchins said: “I think it was important for us to resign players from last season.

“Although the results were fantastic this is a building process and Paul (Reidy) did a great job last season with these players.

“It’s good to see them return for this season.”

Asked how he felt going into the new campaign, he replied: “I’m feeling confident.

“I think pre-season will be a telltale sign for a couple of players in the squad and whether they are what I’m looking for.”

New Street start their pre-season campaign away at Overton on Saturday before travelling to Devizes Town on Tuesday night.

The club then face fixtures against Highworth Town and AFC Aldermaston towards the end of the month before their friendly clash with Andover Town on Saturday, July 30.

Talking about the charity game, which will be held at the Portway Stadium, he said: “I’m massively looking forward to it. It will be a big game for us.

“I know it is a pre-season game but it will be a chance to test ourselves.

“Neil (Benson) has got a good side down there and I have a lot of respect for him.

“I’m very much looking forward to the test.”