Back from a short break, Hereford FC head coach Marc Richards was pleased with the performance of his team against Aston Villa this afternoon and admitted he would have a 'massive headache' deciding who to start next Saturday against Spennymoor.
Whilst three players didn't take any part in the friendly, Rowan Liburd and Simeon May both carrying slight injuries and Josh Gowling said to be a wedding, nineteen had some minutes at least.
"It was a really good test," said Richards.
"A really good workout a week away from the start of the season.
"I thought they shifted the ball extremely well, it felt realistic in terms of a competitive league game and I think the boys would have got through some serious mileage today.
"Really pleased to get a positive result and I thought there were spells today which were really encouraging.
"It's given me some massive headaches which is exactly what I want. Some of the lads have come off the bench today. The strength and depth of what we wanted to have in the squad is not far off."
There were two trialists on the pitch this afternoon, one a striker and the another a left winger believed to be Raheem Hanley. Any possible deals?
"We might be there with one, potentially they will be in Tuesday and Thursday training, then we'll see."
Positive signs from pre-season?
"I just think it's how well the boys have got on and also how well they are taking on the information, I think that really encouraging to see. I feel we've got quite a few natural leaders.
"The competition for places, I look at it and in nearly every position there's a couple of players who can play in that position and do a really good job."
Interviewee Keith Hall felt both free kick and corner routines are 'much enhanced' from last season.
"We've done some work on it, I don't want to give too much away, it's a massive part at any level."
Hall also noted that a quarter of the season is done by September 7th.
"It's crazy, it's such a crazy start. And I don't think too many games will get called off. I think it's why they front-load it especially with the FA Cup and FA Trophy.
"Eight games in August, it's important to hit the ground running and hopefully if we take today's form into that first few weeks of the season we'll be alright."
Richards was asked about latest confirmed signing Jared Hodgkiss.
"You've seen in a few of the games he's played what he brings.
"He's a leader, I made him captain today.
"He's got experience of getting promoted out of the National League, he's got experience of playing in the League.
"And he's just got an unbelievable desire to want to win and the whole group to do well. And he's been really refreshing to have in and around here.
"To have his experience that he's had during a very successful career, I'm just pleased we've got him on board."
It was noticable he was barking orders from the far side of the pitch.
"You want people even if they haven't got the armband on to be doing that. Jordan Cullinane-Liburd (captain after Hodgkiss was subbed) today as well barking orders. Gowling can well and Cane who was captain at Weston.
"It's really important we've got those leaders"
Have you made up your mind who will be captain?
"No, it's good to have all these headaches!"