SHAKERS midfield ace David Borley will be fit for the start of the season after giving manager Andy Preece his first major pre-season scare writes Chris Hall

Preece was fuming after Borley left it until the first week of training to announce he would need an operation on a groin problem.

But, after undergoing surgery on Saturday, the 19-year-old returned to light training this week and his relieved boss is confident he will be available for the clash with Oxford United on the opening day of their Division Three campaign.

"David's had his operation and it went well, so he should be fit for the first game," said Preece.

"No-one else has picked up any injuries in the close season so far, which is good news."

Borley's fitness is another boost to the Shakers squad, who are already in confident mood ahead of their return to the basement division.

Preece shares their confidence in a swift return to Division Two but says his players must cut out their rash streak to stand a chance of promotion.

"The key for us is to have a good start. If we get a few wins under our belt then the confidence will come through," he said.

"Staying injury and suspension free is then very important. Our discipline's got to improve because we've only got a small squad and we can do without losing players through suspension.

"It's a tough year for the team but the lads are in good heart. It hurt them when we went down last year and so it should have. It hurt me too.

"But they have come back much fitter than last year and their running times are a lot quicker, which is important.

"We have the basis of a good squad. If we can bring a couple of players in then I'm confident that we can at least make the play-offs and go straight back up again.

"We proved at times last year that we can compete in the Second Division against the top teams, so we should be looking to bounce back."