Cumbrians test will show us the way forward - Picton

Blyth Spartans assistant manager Lee Picton is convinced that his side's opening pre-season fixture against Carlisle United will give him a "greater insight" into his players.

This season Spartans have opted to face a tough opening test in the form of the SkyBet League Two club, managed by former England international Keith Curle, and Picton is looking forward to the challenge.

"The game against Carlisle United is ideal preparation for us. We will be tested as much as possible, it will be more tactical and it will give us a greater insight into exactly where we are at right now.

The lads are looking forward to it, Tom (Wade) and myself are looking forward to it and I know the supporters will be looking forward to it too."

Picton confirmed that two of Spartans three summer signings would feature in the game, along with four trialists.

"Paul Robinson is missing from the game because he is away on a family holiday after getting married last week but we will have Adam McHugh and Sean Reid available for the game. There will also be four trialists and they will get a run out too, which is ideal because it will show us exactly what they can do against quality opposition"

The Spartans players have five training sessions under their belts ahead of their opening friendly and Picton was "very happy" with how preparations have went, paying tribute to the professionalism of the players during the summer.

"Things have gone really well in our five sessions and I am very happy with the lads. Tom said they would look after themselves during the summer and the boys have done exactly that, which is a huge bonus for them and for Tom and myself.

It means that we don't have to do as much work on their fitness levels and we can look at working on the tactical side of our game during pre-season"

And Picton revealed that the players will be given targets throughout pre-season, starting with the game against the Cumbrians.

"Everyone will get at least forty five minutes to help develop their fitness and really, although we want to win every game, pre-season is about challenging yourself tactically. The players will be given clear, tactical targets and it's up to the players to show they are taking on board what we are trying to achieve here"

Kick off tonight is at 7.30pm, with admission to the game costing £5.00 for adults and £2.00 for concessions.