Future is bright as Byrnes extends stay
which was hard to deal with.
“Over the summer I’ve been working each day which isn’t the most fun, but I’ve balanced it well with keeping myself fit and getting out doing some sprint work on the football pitches near my home.
“I’ve also been doing some football sessions with an excoach of mine amongst some pros, ex-pros and semi-pros, which has been good to get me up to speed - especially with players playing at higher levels.”
After three training sessions, the news from the FA that friendlies may be possible next month is music to the ears of fans and players alike.
Byrnes continued: “I’m personally looking forward to friendlies starting. I think it’s what is needed in times like this something to look forward to. “Training has been great so far, it’s been good to be amongst the lads again and everyone is looking sharp and ready.
“We’ve had a good mix of fitness and footwork with and without the ball and new coach Reedy has brought in some good ideas to keep training sessions fresh and different”.
Since returning from injury towards the end of last season, Byrnes became a regular in the starting XI and is looking to hit the ground running again this season. “My targets for this season are mainly to get a consistent run of games to build up match fitness. Once
I’m up to speed I think I’ll be putting in my best performances yet for Runcorn. I’d like to hit the 10 goal mark hopefully early into the season - then set more targets for the end of the season. I’m naturally a winger but I’ve played everywhere but the wing for Runcorn so far!
“I’m getting used to playing in the centre and learning each game, I think next year will be a big season for me to really push on”.
The 23-year-old is a fan of Manager Paul McManus’ plan for playing expansive football.
Byrnes said: “This year we have a core of really good players on the ball, which is exactly what the gaffer will want.
“The two centres halves Dec and Marco are great with the ball at their feet and can get us playing out. Then we have players like Kieran Holsgrove who is technically excellent who can get us playing. Kev Exell will be a big player for us when he’s not busy winding people up!
“The aim for the team this season is a top three finish and as the squad is gradually coming together, everyone is buying into what the management wants to achieve and how they want to play.
“I think challengers for promotion will be the usual few teams, but as long as we just focus on our own performances each week and playing to get results, by the end of the season we should be in a good place to push for promotion.
“Overall I think we have a group of players that can get the ball down and play exciting football, we have coaches in Macca, DJ, Reedy and Pete our physio who will push us in training and then trust us to get the three points on a Saturday.
“I’m looking forward to being back at the ground around familiar faces and getting games underway as soon as possible”.