The Seasiders host Whickham at the John Keegan Stadium this Saturday (25 July, 3pm) - a strong, physical outfit Burton feels will offer his side a tough first test.

Equipped with new additions the likes of Joe Thompson, Joe Dixon and Mason McNeill, Marske United begin the Northern League’s latest iteration with three games at home.

The John Keegan Stadium welcomes an on-form Whickham on opening day, fresh from four consecutive pre-season victories over Esh Winning, Ryton and Crawcrook, Anfield Plain and Prudhoe Youth Club.

Burton agreed getting off to a good start is important this Saturday, but stressed opening day games are far from the easiest to compete in.

He said: “I know from history of myself being involved when I played and now as a manager, they’re not the easiest games. You just want to get them out of the way.

“They’re (Whickham are) a big strong physical side, similar to Tadcaster. Saturday was a good test for us in that sense.

“I don’t expect them to be too different from what they were the two games we’ve played against them since I’ve been at the club.

“They work hard and they play to their strengths, so we’ve got to be ready, and we’ve got to be prepared.”

Asked about his squad heading into the campaign, Burton acknowledged the club were still seeking further depth.

He teased a few new additions ahead of Saturday’s first test, admitting there were still areas of improvement with a long, gruelling season on the way.

“We’re still looking for players,” he said. “We still know there’s areas that we need to improve.

“We’re trying to bring maybe one or two in before Saturday to improve the squad.”