MALVERN Town boss Lee Hooper insists ‘the hard work starts now’ after the Hillsiders returned for pre-season training.
Town suffered a heartbreaking end to their historic 2024/25 campaign after suffering a play-off final defeat against rivals Evesham United.
And Hooper insists Malvern are ready to attack the Southern League Division One South again in 2025/26.
Hooper said: “I’m excited, we’re ready to go again, the batteries have recharged and we’re looking forward to getting some hard work in our legs and playing some football again.
“We knew the lads we signed would fit straight in and be part of the changing room and buy into everything we’re going to do, they’re great lads.
“They’ll settle in really well and quickly, they’re all bonding with the rest of the group.
“It’s very raw at the moment because we’re only just back for pre-season.
“I’m not sure any player thrives for pre-season, there’s going to be a lot of running involved but on the whole everyone is buzzing to be back.
“The hard work starts now in preparation for the new season.”
