Henry Cowans targeting a promotion push with AFC Telford

The 22-year-old midfielder made 29 appearances as the Bucks eventually beat the drop last season.

A product of Aston Villa’s youth set-up, and son of European Cup-winner Gordon, he feels the vast demands of National League North have made him stronger.

“I feel like I learned a lot last season. The league is a lot more physical than what I was used to and that has helped me – the defensive side of things, I’m much better with that now,” said Cowans.

“I want to be playing regularly, that’s the main thing.

“I’m looking to play my part in helping the club push forward.

“We want to be looking up, we want to be pushing for promotion – not in another relegation battle, worried and looking over our shoulders.

“I’m sure everyone in the dressing room will feel that way. I’m excited to see what happens.”

Cowans scored one goal last term – a screamer in a 3-1 defeat at FC United of Manchester.

He was the third of last season’s squad to commit to the new regime – Gavin Cowan in charge, and Phil Trainer as his assistant – after skipper Shane Sutton and Ross White also agreed fresh terms.

Jon Royle, Ellis Deeney and Amari Morgan-Smith are also staying, while Tamworth duo Darryl Knights and Steph Morley have arrived, along with defender Theo Streete from Brackley Town.

While he may be sad to see fellow midfielders Jordan Lussey and John Marsden leave the club, Cowans feels the squad is shaping up nicely for the 2018/19 campaign.

“I’m looking forward to getting back to it after a nice break,” he added.

“Gav has a lot of contacts, he knows quite a lot of players having been around this level for a few years and he’s already made a couple of good signings.

“I was hoping a good group of last season’s squad would be kept on as we got on well and that seems to be the case too, so it’s looking good.”

Meanwhile, former Bucks shot-stopper Darren Acton has returned to the club to take up the position of goalkeeping coach.