Samuels keen to turn on the style for AFC Telford

The Bucks player of the year has been impressed by Rob Smith's 10 summer signings and reckons the side can be pass masters in National League North.

Telford went into today's high noon glamour friendly against Aston Villa aiming to continue the 100 per cent record which has brought them victories against Colwyn Bay, AFC Wulfrunians and AFC Bridgnorth so far.

And with pleasing-on-the-eye performers such as Lee Fowler and Callum Gittings, Samuels is convinced they can bring some style to the division.

"It looks like we've got some good forward-thinking players who are comfortable on the ball," said Samuels.

"They're happy to have it in tight areas and to come and get it off the defenders, plus they also recycle play quite well.

"'Camps' (Darren Campion) and myself like to join in when we can and it gives us a bit more licence to go forward because the midfield are more of a tight group.

"If we can build on that part of our play and remain strong at the back, hopefully we'll be a strong mix of players and can be competitive this year."

Despite so many new faces, Samuels said there's an excellent team spirit. "I said in the dressing room on Saturday the squad just seems so different from last season," said the right-back.

"Straight away everyone seems like they're together and everyone's on board. Everyone's looking forward to the season and it's a good feeling."

Telford will look to hit the ground running after last season's great escape.

"The fans come and support the team, so it's nice for us to take what happened at the end of last season and try to take the momentum forward," said Samuels.

"That's what the gaffer's asked: 'Can we now go straight to the other end and push on?'"

The club will hold their open evening at the Bucks Head next Thursday (6.45pm).

Entry is free; fans can see the first-team photo shoot, watch training and take part in a question and answers with players and management in the Learning Centre.