Zak Lilly out to show his quality for AFC Telford

The 18-year-old forward is one of 15 players to be announced for next season's squad so far by the Bucks.

He broke into the side during the latter stages of last campaign, following a frustrating hip injury which cost him months of action, and made 10 appearances in National League North.

Not fazed by coming up against experienced defenders in a robust division, Lilly, on the wing, impressed Telford fans and is now hoping to chip in with a fair share of goals.

"I am looking to pick up where I left off from last season, really," he said.

"I think I finished the season in quite good form after being out injured for so long.

"I think it's really important to prove that I can score goals at this level, especially if I'm going to be a regular for the team and to keep my place.

"It is a very big season for me, and I am looking to push on and show my worth at the club."

While boss Rob Smith continues to look for players to add to the squad, including several who will be training over pre-season, former Thomas Telford pupil Lilly already knows he has a fight on his hands to cement a starting spot.

Although he can play centrally, the former West Bromwich Albion youngster was mainly deployed on either flank last term – and Smith has brought in two wingers, Chekaine Steele and Luke Shaw from Worcester City and Grantham Town respectively.

On meeting up with the club's fresh faces, Lilly said: "It is always good to meet the new players, and I've seen that there's been some very good signings so it should be interesting in pre-season."

He added: "It has been a tough couple of years for the club and the fans, and I think they need a few good early results from us to get them up and backing us for the season to come.

"I'll be working hard to do that and I know the rest of the team will too. Altogether, I am looking forward to the new season and what it'll bring."