Shaping up

8:25am Saturday 28th June 2008

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WEYMOUTH manager John Hollins is closing in on more new faces to his squad - including a goalkeeper.

However, the Terras' boss says he is unable to release the names of his potential new signings until all the deals are finalised.

He said: "Everything is looking good at the moment, we've hopefully managed to get the majority of the players we've been after and we've tied some more up, but we are just waiting to get all the paperwork sorted before we release who they are.

"They include a keeper but we're also looking at another two or three, we need one more extra as it's an important position."

The new arrivals will help boost the Weymouth squad following the loss of defender Kyle Critchell to Wrexham for an undisclosed fee and ahead of the team's return to pre-season training on Monday.

Of Critchell's departure, Hollins added: "It's always disappointing to lose a player but opportunities arise for players. When people come in for a player we always ask that player whether they want to go or not.

"He's chosen what to do and good luck to him, he's been a good servant to us and we wish him well in his career.

"We're looking to fill the void already and we've got utility players who will work out."

With pre-season just 48 hours away, the Chelsea legend is eager to get back to work ahead of the upcoming campaign having helped the Terras stave off relegation from the Blue Square Premier last term.

He said: "We've been looking at different facilities so that everything will run smoothly. I'm looking forward to it and just want to get started.

"The first session on Monday we'll be looking at the players' weight and just checking that everything is right. We may also do some light work but we will be starting up for definite on Tuesday."

The Terras' first pre-season friendly is a trip to Portland United on Friday, July 11 while their first home friendly is the visit of League One outfit Bristol Rovers on Wednesday, July 16.

Weymouth then visit Dorchester Town (July 19) and host Southampton (July 22), Bristol City (July 25), Exeter City (July 29) and Yeovil Town (August 2) in their remaining games.