Boro now have two free Saturdays before they kick-off their league campaign with a trip to Kendal on August 19.

"I don't think it matters that we have no game now before the season starts," said boss Andy Johnston.

"We are going to give the lads next week off, and we will have them in the week before the Kendal game to practise free-kicks etc.

"I have no problems about the lads' fitness. These days, players take care of themselves, go to the gym and generally want to look good. Gone are the days when players would turn up a stone heavier after the summer.

"We do quality work in training and I'm sure the lads will be ready for the Kendal game."

And, Boro's striking problems are easing after Johnston confirmed that Kieran Lugsden will start the first month of the season on loan from Altrincham alongside fellow Robin Pat McFadden.

"Kieran and Pat will give us plenty of options up-front, and it was good to see Jamie Miller on the scoresheet on Tuesday night. We need Jamie fit now and I think he understands that and is working very hard," said Johnston.

Goalkeeper Danny Hurst still hasn't signed an extension to his contract but Johnston is confident he will sign very soon, while defender Stephen Hill is back in full training with the squad after a summer operation.

"I can't wait for the season to start now. The squad is finally taking shape and the lads are looking good," concluded Johnston.