ACCRINGTON Stanley manager John Coleman has been thwarted in his quest to bring in two new players - but he is still hopeful of making the right additions.

The Reds boss is still looking to add to his squad before the Conference season kicks off a week on Saturday.

"I was a bit disappointed as I missed out on Andy Todd, from Hucknall, as he has gone to Burton Albion and I was hoping to have Chris Senior, from Scarborough, to face Wigan on Wednesday but he chose to go elsewhere. But we will keep looking," said the boss.

It has been a struggle as other targets have failed to materialise. Goalkeeper Craig Dootson and midfielder Paul Carden both went to league clubs in Bury and Peterborough respectively while a bid to bring in ex-Rochdale striker Leighton McGivern fell through.

But Coleman isn't too worried - especially with players returning from injury - and he was impressed with left back Leam Richardson in the 1-1 draw with Wigan on Wednesday. The 25-year-old has an impressive CV which includes Blackburn, Bolton and Blackpool. "He showed a good willingness and a good desire to do the right things and made important tackles. He looked a decent prospect," said the boss.

The Reds chief is also in talks with striker Lee Hunt, who is on trial from Welsh club Rhyl, and Michael Welch, a centre half from Macclesfield, who both played against Wigan.

And Coleman is happy with his current squad: "I have never been more optimistic in pre-season. We have the right desire in the squad, a great team spirit and a keenness to learn. The lads work hard for each other and if we eliminate silly goals and wastefulness in front of goal, I can see no reason why we can't make a challenge."