Workington Reds are aiming to strengthen further on the eve of the new Evo-Stik Northern Premier League season.

Reds were rocked earlier this week by the news that Arron Bradbury wanted to leave the club, saying he didn't feel ready to make the step up.

And this left joint managers Dave Hewson and Lee Andrews with a hole in their squad - one that they are keen to fill as soon as possible, with Stafford Rangers heading to Borough Park for the league opener on Saturday, ko 3pm.

"It was a big shock to us when Arron said he was leaving, it came very much out of the blue really and we were disappointed because he was a big part of our plans," admitted Hewson.

"In pre-season, everything looked like he was settled and happy and ready to go.

"But this happens in football, it can be very unpredictable. But we can't just wait.

"So I'm hoping to make an announcement this week. I'm just waiting for things to be finalised.

"Hopefully, we will bring at least one player in this week."

Hewson admitted that might not be the end of his recruitment, as he also has his eyes on another quality player he would like to add to his squad.

He admitted that this signing might take slightly longer but that the player was worth the wait if he agreed to join.

"I have been in talks with another player for some time and it is early days," he added.

"But he is real quality so I am trying hard to bring him to the club. And I am hopeful I can do that.

"It probably won't be for the start of the season but he is quality so I'm waiting out for him, and hopefully, we will secure his services."

Stafford have also been recruiting some talented youngsters ahead of their trip to West Cumbria.

They have snapped up defender Lewis Banks from Stoke City and midfielder Billy Reeves who joins from Port Vale.