Source: Northern_Echo
Singh anticipating exciting campaign
Darlington chairman Raj Singh insists the loss of their League Two status will not prevent the club from attracting some exciting players to The Northern Echo Arena this summer. Manager Simon Davey's extensive contacts and knowledge of the transfer market have led the chairman to believe they can build a squad stronger than the group of players who suffered relegation this term. Davey wants to start next season with around 23 players and has made the recruitment of two new centre-halves a priority. Singh accepts that assembling a side capable of mounting a strong promotion challenge is essential but is under no illusions about the challenge Darlington face. I ask the fans to stay with us and help turn things around, said Singh. The players Simon is looking to bring in over the summer are exciting, better than those we've had in the squad this season. Even though we'll be in a lower division I expect us to have a stronger team than this season. If we are able to bring them in I am convinced we will be in a strong position ahead of next season. It is going to be a tough campaign and it's essential we get off to a good start. The hard work has already started and I can reassure supporters we are working very hard to make sure things improve next season. We will be competitive in the transfer market. Darlington is still in a position to attract players of a high calibre. Simon has a good knowledge of the market and knows the type of people he wants. If players don't want to be here then we wont stand in their way. Hopefully it's a case of onward and upward and the bad times are behind us. I can understand supporters feeling flat. We all share their disappointment but there are also signs of optimism. Simon has brought a very positive mindset to the club. He has been like a breath of fresh air about the place and I'd like to think supporters have started to see his influence on the pitch already. But this is the first step in a long-term process. Raj Singh was speaking at Wynyard Golf Club at a charity golf tournament organised by Middlesbrough Former Players Association.