DANNY Forrest has challenged his Silsden players to prove they are worthy of a shirt for their season's opener after two friendly drubbings.

The Cobbydalers have slipped to two 7-1 defeats during pre-season at the hands of Avro and Hyde United.

Now the former Bradford City ace wants more from his charges during the remainder of the build-up to their opening game of the season at Penistone Church in the Toolstation Northern Counties East League Premier Division on Saturday, August 3.

Silsden face a tough schedule of friendlies with four matches in the next week, kicking off at Nelson tomorrow night (7.45pm). This is followed by a trip to Ilkley Town on July 23 (7.45pm), a clash at Barrowford Celtic two days later and a home friendly with Charnock Richard on July 27 (3pm).

Forrest said: "I'm not making excuses. We have not been good defensively in those games. Key players have been away but are coming back now.

"I don't like losing. I know there are things for us to iron out. We have four games in eight days.

"There are eight to 10 places up for grabs, they need to make sure they are in the starting 11 for the match on August 3. I see it as a squad game and every member should want to play in that game.

"They all want to be here. It has given me food for thought. There is a lot to think about.

"I want to see performances from players where I can't leave them out of the team. Everyone has got an opportunity.

"In previous years, I had a good idea of my team and there were only two or three places up for grabs. I do feel it's open.

"I trust every single one of the players.

"There is plenty of game time to be had. Who wants it the most?"

Silsden have bolstered their ranks already during the summer with four signings.

They have recruited Liam Hudson, 26, who has played for both Thackley and Eccleshill, and can play as both a defender and as a holding midfielder.

Goalkeeper Alfie Darke, 17, has joined from Bradford City. He played the final three games of last season on loan at Silsden obviously impressed as he now returns to The Cobbydalers.

Striker Khurram Shazad, who played for Eccleshill last season, has joined. Shazad had a short spell at local side Brighouse Town and as a professional in the USA and in Austria.

Left-back Jake McEneaney has re-joined the Cobbydalers after a six-year absence.

Silsden have been moved into the Northern Counties as part of the Football Association's adjustments to the National League System for next season.

Forrest's men can now look forward to Bradford district derbies against Thackley, Eccleshill, Albion Sports and Liversedge, who all reside in the NCEL top flight.