Hereford FC manager Josh Gowling had hoped to pit his squad against a couple of Football League sides in pre-season friendlies at Edgar Street but this now looks highly unlikely given the FL is starting before the National League.
"We looked at friendlies we wanted, quite a few Football League clubs, then all of a sudden the FL is starting on September 12th and we're starting on October 3rd," said Gowling in a long interview with RadioHerefordFC.
"So now we can't get those friendlies because they are starting early. And the Leagues below us are starting before us so they will be up to speed.
"We're lucky that we've got some friendlies early like Halesowen because they are going to be match fit when we play them."
Given that pre-season friendlies attract less spectators that 'league' games, Gowling feels that the clubs should be able to test their set-ups at friendlies.
"Probably the best opportunity they are going to get to test is at pre-season friendlies so it makes total sense for everyone.
"The fans have been away from football for so long so what better time to come in, see all the new players and watch football."
Some clubs, such as Spennymoor, York, Telford and Gloucester, seem to be spending a lot of money at present.
"It's strange one as these clubs didn't seem to have money then there seems to be money coming from somewhere. They seem to be going for it.
"If it works for them that's fine.
"We'll run Hereford FC properly, we'll manage it within our budget.
"If people want to take a gamble that's up to them. We've done that in the past and it hasn't worked out so we are going to be sensible, we're going to recruit right."