Paul McCone set to rejoin Telford squad

The 24-year-old former Stourbridge defender is patiently working his way back to full fitness.

He's on course to take part in a modified pre-season with a view to challenging ex-Pitmen team-mate Ben Bailey and new signing Dan Preston for a place in the autumn.

The no-nonsense centre-back and Bucks captain, who joined from Hednesford last October, only managed eight games last season before suffering a ruptured cruciate ligament last November.

But manager Rob Smith said: "Paul's doing really well and he's flying. He'll let us know when he's ready but he'll do pre-season in some context.

"He's out running and he's on schedule for October or November to be back playing.

"We saw last season how good he was but he's in the last-chance saloon now and so the one thing he can't afford to do is break down again, so we won't be rushing him back.

"He will not be risked because he's such a massive player for us. We're really looking forward to having him back with us because he's a good lad."

McCone will be a welcome addition at the back but in the meantime, Smith is seeking a replacement for Curtis Tilt, who has joined Wrexham to compete with Bailey and Preston.

Smith said: "I want an experienced centre back but if a young, athletic centre half that matches the quality we've got became available.

"I wouldn't say no to that either. We've got a few feelers out there, but there's no rush."