BURNLEY will aim to be competitive across all three teams this season after enjoying a ‘reasonable pre-season’.

More than 20 players have trained with the Holden Road outfit during the summer months.

Paul Mallaband will remain captain of the first team for a second season, while Danny Marshall is new in the role in the second team, while the thirds are also under new leadership, with Michael Smith leading the side out.

Burnley have also appointed a vice-captain this season to cope with the increased workload, with more fixtures than last term, with Tom Ives, a strong centre, stepping up to the role.

Chris Pickles, Lee Ferrier and Dec Hutchinson have come into the ranks from the junior section, with Reece Clark comping in to compete for a position in the backs.

Coach Simon Finnan said: “With two pre season games Burnley should go into the season up to speed and be competitive in the Lancashire Plate away at Trafford, then the following week at home to Trafford in the league.

“Unfortunately leaving the squad from last year is James Henderson who is plying is trade at Blackburn next season, and missing the early part of the season will be Ben Healy who travels New Zealand.

“However by the start of the season we will hopefully have signed another two players.

“Realistically though the firsts should push top teams.

“The seconds, if they can get a settled side, should be aiming to be at the top end off there league and the thirds ideally aim for another season consolidating their place in a league filled with two first teams and four second teams.”