A new reserve team manager is now in place, and whilst two or three familiar faces have left the club, new players and staff are being recruited to fill the gaps.

In accordance with a message to the fans from chairman Robert Yong, the identities of players who have signed for the club are being kept under wraps until pre-season matches begin.

But Cox says this is purely for the good of the team.

He said: “There’s no cloak and dagger approach going on, I just want to get a settled squad together quietly and efficiently.

“Obviously some other clubs reveal things on their own sites, but for now we’ll continue working hard and will then issue a press release with the details of the current squad.”

Two players who won’t be on that list are Paul Mitchell and Jay Smedley, who have both made the short trip to Hucknall to play in the Blue Square North next season.

Mitchell had played an influential role in Eastwood’s midfield, often as team captain, while Smedley was an effective squad player but failed to hold down a regular starting place.

Cox said: “I had a cracking relationship with both of them and we all wish them well for the future.

“Sometimes players feel the need to move on, and although we offered them both deals to stay here, they felt they wanted a challenge elsewhere, which is fair enough.”

Cox also took time to pay tribute to physiotherapist Fred Kirk, who after five years at Coronation Park will also be heading to Hucknall.

“We also wish Fred all the best as he’s been an important part of the set-up here,” said the Badgers boss.

“We’ve acted quickly though and brought a great physio in to replace him who has an excellent CV.”

The club have meanwhile appointed Sam Ralph as coach of the new reserve side that will grace Coronation Park next season.

Ralph was involved with the Badgers last season as a goalkeeping coach and has also worked at Nottingham Forest.

Cox said: “We had plenty of interest in the job but wanted to appoint from within, and Sam worked very hard with us last year so was a good candidate.

“The reserve side will be Sam’s baby next season, but it could also be that some of the more experienced first team players can help get involved with some of the coaching, which will be a good education for them.”