Notts County midfielder Andy Parkinson believes that the Magpies' boss Steve Thompson's summer signings will have improved the strength and depth at Meadow Lane. County finished just below mid-table last term, a considerable improvement following low finishes in the basement division in recent years, falling short of their play-off hopes.

"I'm really looking forward to the season now, and getting stuck into the football," he told County's official website. "We've got a few new signings, and I think they will make sure stronger. The Manager has said the main aim is promotion, which is brilliant. We wanted it last season and we tried, but we came up a little bit short. We have a bit more strength this season, and we are looking forward to it. The strength in depth is better, and that means we are better equipped to have a go."

County's new strength and depth could be called upon early into the campaign following the news last week that defender Mike Edwards suffered a double-fracture to his right leg. A timescale has not been set for his return to action but the Magpies are already talking about months rather than weeks. County are not the only club who will be starting the season a defender down. Bradford City's Matthew Clark is also sidelined. The former Darlington player is suffering from a hamstring problem.

"It's a real shame for Clarkey and the team because he's been doing ever so well," said Bradford City boss Stuart McCall. "We don't really know yet how serious the problem is but I would think you are talking possibly four to six weeks. I feel for the lad. He's acquitted himself well in the games so far and in training and there is nothing worse in pre-season when you want to build up your fitness."

In other injury news Barnet's Giuliano Grazioli has had keyhole surgery on his troublesome right knee late last week. Barnet physiotherpist Mark Stein has already ruled out the thirty-two-year-old striker for around four weeks which means he will miss the start of the season.

Elsewhere in the division Lincoln City's move for Anthony Tonkin appears to have collapsed. The left back looks set to snub a two year from the Imps. Head coach John Schofield had hoped to make the former Yeovil and Crewe defender his second summer signing. However, Tonkin, who is not with Lincoln on their current tour to France, is also wanted by several Blue Square Premier clubs based closer to his home in the south-west.

"We've offered Anthony a contract, which his agent admits is a very good one," explained Schofield. "However, we haven't heard back from the player himself yet. And I know of several Blue Square Premier clubs based closer to where he lives that are interested in him, so he may decide to sign for one of them. Had it been me, I would have jumped at the chance to sign for a Football League club. But we only want people who want to play for us. If Anthony does sign for someone else, we'll respect his decision."

Finally Gray Harkins is set to have his Grimsby Town contract cancelled by mutual consent. Harkins, who signed for the Mariners last summer, made just twenty appearances last season. The player is expected to sign for Partick Thistle.