Vanarama's National League North fan preview: Curzon Ashton

League sponsors Vanarama have been getting the fans’ perspective ahead of the new season - which kicks off this Saturday

What make you most excited about the big kick-off on August 3?
The fans have got a young, exciting football team that play football the right way who will give any team in this league a game.

You lost long-serving boss John Flanagan last season who was eventually replaced by Mark Bradshaw. What differences have you seen since the change?
It was a shock John left; I think he wanted to progress with the team but needed the finances to go to the next level which we haven't got. Looking back, things were starting to get a bit stale and needed a new direction and different approach.

What’s been the best bit of business done over the past few months?
I think all the new signings look very decent but Andy Halls and Nicky Wroe with their vast experience and knowledge could be pivotal for the function of the team.

What will be the noticeable changes around the club?
A much more of a blend youthful, energetic and experienced team.

Who could get people talking this season?
I’ve got a feeling Telford will be the team to watch.

Who are you tipping for a promotion push?
I think all the ex-Football League clubs plus Darlington, Spennymoor and Brackley will be in the mix. It’ll be a much closer league this season.

What ground are you most looking forward to visiting?
Gloucester City if they get back to Meadow Park. I have always had an interest in Meadow Park since seeing the photos of it underwater – they’re a friendly bunch also.

If you could pick one game for a guaranteed win, who would you choose?
Since losing neighbours Ashton United, FC United of Manchester and Stalybridge Celtic over the years, there aren’t any real derby games so I will pick Southport and Alfreton for personal reasons.

If you could sign anyone from another club, who would you go for?
Goals are the name of the game so would have picked Colby Bishop before he moved to the Football League. But I’ll pick Glen Taylor, He’s a big, tall, skilful player who scores goals from nothing.

Finally, the key question - where do you predict your team will finish next season?
Hopeful if we score enough, we can head to the play-offs or top-ten finish. But will go for finishing 11th or 12th.

Vanarama, the leading van leasing brand in the UK, have recently launched the National League Club Reward Scheme to help fans back their club’s budget. Every time a fan takes out a brand new van lease with Vanarama or a brand new car lease with Motorama their club will earn £100 and you will receive £30 cashback.

For the latest van leasing deals, head to Vanarama.
For the latest car leasing deals, head to Motorama.