MONMOUTH Town's first team manager Andrew Smith has urged the people of the town and surrounding areas to get behind the Kingfishers as they return to Monmouth and aim to win the Welsh League First Division for the second time in three years.

"I'll be honest and hold my hands up that we were wrong to move last season.

"I genuinely thought that in order for us to maintain momentum after winning the league, the move was a positive one, but it became apparent quite quickly that the club needed to be playing back home.

"It's now time for all those people who spoke out regarding the move, and what a bad idea it was, to support the club in any way they can.

"We have a squad with a larger number of local players and a handful of players that travel from slightly further.

"All are over the moon that we are returning to the Sports Ground and it'll be great to be playing in front of our home supporters again.

Smith is happy with how the close season has gone and is looking forward to a pre-season that starts on Tuesday 30th June.

"If I'm honest, I think we'll be in a stronger position this pre-season compared to last year.

"We lost pivotal players last season and preparation wasn't great in terms of friendlies due to the timing of my appointment after Steve Jenkins left for Merthyr.

"This year we've sorted our friendlies out early and I'm happy with the games and opponents we've secured.

"I've also spoken to a few targets in order to strengthen in areas where I think we needed strengthening, and they are keen to be part of what we are trying to achieve here."

Despite being happy with his playing squad and preparations for the season, Smith, who recently passed his UEFA B licence coaching award, is concerned about the club off the field.

"We have a very small committee who work tirelessly but need more, in terms of numbers off the field, to help with the running of the club.

"No matter how large or small a part you want to play, we'll be happy to have you around".

Smith finished by promising the people of Monmouth a team that the town can be proud of.

"Last year was a huge learning curve for me and that will result in both myself and the players being more prepared to mount a serious title challenge next year.

"I hope that we can do it in front of a large number of supporters and that they can really be our 12th man this year."