CHORLEY manager Matt Jansen has begun his preparations for the new campaign by signing on two of last season's key men.

Striker Marcus Carver and attacker Matty Hughes have both re-signed for the 2018-19 campaign and Jansen is pleased to have the pair on board as they bid to improve on play-off defeats in each of the last two National League North campaigns.

“We’re very glad to have Matty back with us,” said Jansen.

“He came in after the season had started last year so it took him a few weeks to get up to speed.

"But once he’d been slotted into the squad he became a really useful figure in a whole host of situations.”

Of Carver, Jansen added: "I love Marcus to bits. We have a bit of a love hate relationship at times, but he’s been there when we’ve needed him over the last few seasons and it was an easy decision to bring him back.”

Hughes can play in a variety of positions and the 25-year-old made 38 appearances for the Magpies last season having joined from AFC Fylde last summer.

“I was very happy to sign on again for next season,” Hughes said. “It was great to be a part of the FA Cup run and qualifying for the play-offs this year and I can’t wait for more of the same.”

Former Accrington Stanley striker Carver, 24, score 14 goals for Chorley last season and will return for a fourth campaign at Victory Park having initially joined the club on loan from the Reds.

“I’m thrilled to be coming back for the new season,” Carver said. “I love playing for Chorley, it’s a great club to be involved with. Everyone’s made me so welcome since I first joined in 2015 and I can’t wait to start another season."