Preview | Summer business

The 2026/27 gets underway on Saturday as we play host to Chertsey Town (kick-off 3pm).

This summer has seen a number of new faces check in to add to the talent already here as we set about the task of going one better than the previous two seasons where we have fallen at the final hurdle in the play-offs.

Firstly, we have been able to make Morgan Lewis’ loan spell a permanent move after the Welsh full-back impressed during the latter stages of last season as he made the left flank his own.

Combining defensive solidity with attacking quality, he chipped in with a number of assists and became a key figure in the side.

The engine room has been strengthened with the arrival of Tom Owen Evans, who checks in following a three-year spell in The National League South with Chippenham Town.

Bringing creativity and proven quality to the squad, he has plenty of higher level experience to draw upon, including a previous loan spell at City a decade ago.

Also adding to our midfield options is Jake Evans. He is another player who has previously spent time here on loan having had a spell with us in 2024/25 where he showed his versatility across a number of different positions.

Solid and reliable defender, Ben Nugent, is another player who is back with us. He has a no-nonsense approach to defending, which has served him well throughout his career, which has seen him serve the likes of Cardiff City, Crewe Alexandra and Stevenage.

We are delighted to have ‘Nuge’ back in the back-line.

Another accomplished and creative performer joining our ranks is Jack Clarke, who has checked in from Kidderminster Harriers.

He is a left-footed midfield man who has also operated at higher levels and has undoubted quality.

Meanwhile, we were able to secure the services of local attacking talent, Ethan Dunbar, amidst plenty of interest from elsewhere.

A dynamic and athletic performer who has previously represented Hartpury, Longlevens, Bishops Cleeve and latterly Evesham United. As soon as he knew of City’s interest, there was only place that he wanted to be!

We look forward to benefitting from his hard-working displays.

He will be joined in our attacking department by Harry Williams, who returns for another spell at the clubs.

The 30 year-old is an intelligent player who knows where the goal is and is also able to create chances for others.

Providing the supply for our forward line will be talented winger, Jack Bearne.

He cut his football teeth in the youth ranks at Liverpool before going on to have a successful loan spell at Kidderminster Harriers for his first taste of senior action.

Going on to serve Greenock Morton north of the border before spells with Hednesford Town and Oxford City, he is an exciting addition to the group.

Talking about exciting additions, Ashley Hemmings has also been snapped up and will bring a huge amount of quality to our ranks.

He is a player that has operated in the EFL as well as giving sterling service to Kidderminster Harriers. His capture is a real statement of intent ahead of what is sure to be an exciting season.

Add to this the likes of Liam Cross, Ed Williams, James Waite, Keiran Thomas, Joe Hanks, Harry Emmett, Jared Thompson, Kieran Phillips, King Baidoo, Michael O’Regan and Dan Leadbitter who have all committed to the club once more and you have a squad packed with talent.

Of course, we also send our appreciation and best wishes to those players who have departed for pastures new over the summer.

The focus now is ensuring that 2026/27 is a campaign to remember for all of the right reasons.

We need you with us every step of the way! Get your tickets for Saturday’s Premier South opener here and bring the noise…