DAVID Holdsworth today hailed the backing he has been given by the Mansfield Town's board in putting together his new-look squad, reports Matt Halfpenny of the Nottingham Evening Post,

So far the Stags have made six new signings - Luke Jones, Jake Speight, Luke Graham, Gary Mills, Tim Sandercombe and Paul Heckingbottom.

And they have also made striker Daryl Clare's loan move from Rushden and Diamonds permanent as they bid to secure a play-off place or better.

Manager Holdsworth feels chairman Andy Perry and directors Andy Saunders and Steve Middleton deserve praise for their 'forward thinking' approach.

And he believes the decision to honour season-ticket applications at £195 per adult will also benefit his team.

"The fans should be very encouraged by what Mr Perry and the board are doing at this club. They are a breath of fresh air," said Holdsworth.

"They have got behind me from day one and done their best to help me. They are all very good people.

"They want the club to be safe and sound and have its best interests at heart.

"It is a tremendous gesture for them to go ahead with the season-ticket plan. I'm sure the fans appreciate that and it can only help the team having good crowds behind us each week."