Salford City captain Ashley Eastham is relishing the start of the season especially with the return of supporters. The 30 year old joined the Amnies in January 2020 but has only played in front of the home fans twice and is delighted to have the opportunity on Saturday. Speaking to salfordcityfc.co.uk “last season was tough being an empty season. I’m really excited for this season to be back to some sort of normality. We hope you have plenty to cheer about on Saturday”.

Salford had best home record in League Two last season – P23 W11 D11 L1

Only defeat to Bolton 0-1, 13/04/2021

Manager Gary Bowyer was appointed in the summer after missing out on the play offs by just two points last season. The Amnies are once again one of the bookies favourites but the former Blackburn man highlights that every club will have their sights set on promotion. Speaking to Salfordcityfc.co.uk “I’m sure if we went up and down the country, clubs all have expectations. One thing you can guarantee it will be a real tough season, teams all have expectations to get out of the league and we are certainly no different”.

Bowyer’s Record at Salford – P11 W6 D2 L3 F13 A5 20 points

After three managers last season, the Amnies will be hoping Bowyer can bring some stability at the Penisula. Midfielder Matty Willock joined in midweek after being on trial during pre season and revealed the vision of the club helped him make the decision. Speaking to salfordcityfc.co.uk “I spoke with the gaffer, the club and they both have the same aspirations s me. We just want to achieve as much as we can in League Two and push on. I want to push as high as possible so I think it is a perfect fit”.

Once again there has been plenty of incomings at the Penisula with Bowyer praising his sides pre season work ahead of the new season. Despite defeat in their pre season game the 50 year was pleased and is raring to go ahead of the visit of Leyton Orient on Saturday. Speaking to salfordcity.co.uk “overall it’s been a very good pre season, the program we put together really tested and stretched us in the games. We can see they are fit. I’m delighted pre season is over now and we get ready for the real stuff”.

Salford and Orient are no strangers to each other as they sides met at the Penisula on the final day of last season. But there has been plenty of change at the O’s in the summer with Boywer hoping the fans can provide the edge tomorrow. Speaking to salfordcityfc.co.uk “we are all looking forward to Saturday. It has been fantastic to have them back in the stadium but it become a lot more real next week”.

Team News

Tom King looks set for his debut in goal while summer signings Connor McAleny Josh Morris and Matty Lund look set to start against the O’s. Midfielder Matty Willock could be handed a start after his midweek move to the Amnies.

Head to Head

Prediction – Salford City 1-1 Leyton Orient