Following a turbulent summer Mick Harford explained the build up to the opening game against Port Vale.

"We were down to eight contracted players and so really we were at the mercy of the Football League," explained Harford. "But we do now have a team for tomorrow.

"We have been working hard locating players and then working to bring them into the club.

"I'm glad we are here. It's been a long road and it has been tough."

But Mick has been pleased with the way the players have managed the recent uncertainty at Kenilworth Road.

"All the players have shown great commitment even though they didn't have a contract," he said. "I take my hat off to the lot of them for standing by us."

And he knows just what is needed from the team this season, as he explained: "I'm not bothered about Bournemouth and Rotherham. We need to go out and show what we can do. We are just concerned about how we approach this season.

"The key to going up is good home form and a good start - if we only lose one or two home games I believe we will stay up.

"The fans have had a tough time and they deserve better, and I hope I can give it to them."