Histon manager Chris Nunn pleased to retain likes of Max York, Connor Barnes and Charlie Black
While new additions are in the pipeline, Histon manager Chris Nunn is equally enthused by the players that have agreed to remain with the club.
In recent days the Stutes confirmed that the likes of captain Max York and last season’s leading scorer Connor Barnes, as well as defenders Karl Saffery and Charlie Black and midfielder Joe O’Neill, had all committed themselves to another season at Bridge Road.
“The most important thing for any manager or any football club is that you keep hold of as many as your good players as possible,” said Nunn, who is preparing for his second full campaign in charge of Histon.
“Consistency is such a massive thing in football and these are not only good players, they’re brilliant lads to have around as well.
“It’s really important that we kept hold of a good number of the squad because we want to build something, and you can only do that properly if you have strong and solid foundations.”
News of fresh additions, meanwhile, will come in good time.
Agreements have been reached with certain players, but with signing on forms not yet available, Nunn is keeping his cards close to his chest.
He added: “We’ve agreed with three or four players but until it’s officially done then you never know what will happen.
“We’re still speaking to some players but obviously it’s tough to find good players. Those that have had good seasons will be well looked after by their clubs and there’s a lot of ambitious clubs out there.
“At the same time we believe we’ve got a good product to sell and the players that we’ve spoken to are exciting additions.”
One player that has confirmed his intention to return to the club is Jake Kerins.
The defender, who lives in the village, was one of Nunn’s first signings when he took over as Histon boss in October 2023.
He went on to make 44 appearances – scoring four goals – before leaving to go travelling.
However, having returned home this summer, Kerins will be back in the fold going forward.
“Jake has made it clear that he wants to come back, which is brilliant for us,” said Nunn.
“He’s a good player and I’m sure that Jake has looked after himself pretty well while he’s been away.
“It’s like a new signing in many ways because we’ve missed Jake’s influence on and off the pitch.
“I believe he’s one of the best defenders in this area at our level.”
And while many clubs have already started pre-season training, Histon’s first session will not take place until next week.
“Pre-season seems to start earlier and earlier but I thought it was important that the players had a decent break,” said Nunn.
“Managers don’t get much of a break, but the players need it.
“We’ve got five friendlies booked in and a good number of training sessions so I think the boys will be ready.
“I also expect the players to be responsible for their own fitness while they’re off. These days they should already be fit coming into pre-season and it’s more about building up that sharpness.”
Histon’s friendly schedule starts on 12 July with a trip to Kempston Rovers, which is followed three days later on 15 July with a home clash against Lakenheath.
On 17 July Nunn’s men will head to Eynesbury United, followed by home meetings with Holbeach United and Biggleswade Town on 19 and 22 July respectively before the season opener on 26 July.
Meanwhile, Histon have been drawn at home against Southwell City in the opening round of the Sports Ground Development League Cup on 4 October.