Y his part for the team, in his 16th season at Sligo Rovers

Monaghan United. Seventeen years on and Cretaro’s importance to his team is still as relevant as ever. His ten league goals last season out of a club career total of 80 helped propel Rovers to a fifth place league finish and the veteran striker is confident this year’s youthful squad can improve on 2016’ s finish.

The aim he says is to first match last year’s total points haul of 49 as early as possible and progress from there.

“Pre- season has gone really well although you don’t really look too much into results”, he mulls. “We want to build on last season. I think when we hit that target we’ll set new sights.

“Europe is obviously the target we are trying to reach but we won’t get ahead of ourselves. We need to get to where we were last year, reach it as quickly as we can and build from that.”

The most decorated and accomplished player in this year’s squad, Raff says he is keen to contribute to the team in any way he can.

But he is adamant in turn that the roster is littered with leaders, adding that recent addition Chris Kenny has already had an effect. “Being the oldest here with the most experience you take it upon yourself to try and help any of the lads in any way possible. Be that on or off the pitch.

“But there’s plenty of leaders here. You see Chris who has come into the squad over the last few weeks. The displays he’s given over the last few games have been really encouraging. But not just Chris, we have other leaders within the team who can contribute.”

One of the most versatile players in the league, Raff’s adaptability and attitude means he has covered every outfield position for Rovers over his 469 appearances. He says he is keen to continue his role in his preferred position as the spear head of the attack but is more than happy to fill holes when required.

“I’m here that long and have enough experience to realise if I’m on the bench and I’m called upon, I’m willing to come on and do a job.

“If we’re in the middle of a game and a left full gets injured and there’s no replacement on the bench and Dave ( Robertson) needs someone to fill in, I’m more than happy to do that.

“Under Dave, we have freedom to express ourselves and personally he encourages me to get forward and as a striker that’s where I’ve had my most joy playing for the club.

“That excites me but I want to try and play as many games as I can and help the team as much I can.

“I’m probably not going to play as many games as I’d like. But I know I’m here to do a job whenever I’m needed whether that be on Friday against Limerick or the following week. “

Looking forward to what is the most unpredictable league in many years, Raff says the current batch of Rovers players have it within them to spring a few surprises.

“This is a great bunch of lads in terms of personality and character. Talent wise, I think we have a side that can achieve things.

“I’m really looking forward to the season to be honest because I think we’re going to shock a few people. We are determined to push on and finish higher than last season.”

The campaign gets underway this weekend with a tricky assignment in hand against newly promoted Limerick.

“There’ll be no easy game this year as with last. And Limerick will be tough”, Cretaro warns.

“They’ve a few decent players but look it doesn’t matter who you play or what way the games fall, you have to play them all. I’m confident we can put it up to anyone we come up against.”