NEW Forest Green boss Mark Cooper cast his eye over his players for the first time today as the club’s pre-season got underway at a rain-soaked Royal Agricultural University.

The squad kicked off their preparation for the new National League term with fitness work at their training ground on the outskirts of Cirencester.

Cooper put his team through their paces alongside assistant manager Scott Lindsey, fitness coach Tom Huelin and goalie coach Steve Hale.

Rovers are due to embark on two days of fitness testing at the University of Gloucestershire on Thursday and Friday.

The club have eight days until their first friendly, away to Southern League outfit Evesham, and Cooper will use the next week to familiarise the squad with his own methods.

Cooper has had a busy summer signing spree – adding nine new faces to date.

The former Swindon Town boss is still chasing a goalkeeper to compete with Jonny Maxted and is also in the market for a proven striker.

Forest Green pre-season fixtures:

Thursday, July 7: Evesham United (a), 7.45pm.

Wednesday, July 13: Cardiff City (h), 7.45pm.

Friday, July 15: Bishop's Cleeve (a), 7.30pm.

Saturday, July 16: Birmingham City (h), 3pm.

Monday, July 25: Slimbridge (a), 7.30pm.

Tuesday, July 26: Brimscombe & Thrupp (a), 7.30pm.

Friday, July 29: Shortwood United (a), 7.30pm.

Saturday, July 30: Newport County (h), 3pm.

Tuesday, August 2: Swindon Supermarine (a), 7.30pm.