ON what proved to be a day of new starts, John Sheridan welcomed the players back for the first day of pre-season training.

Latics were put through their paces with runs and training drills as preparations for the new season, in the National League, begin.

With five new signings so far, in Liam Hogan, Chris Porter, Jordan Windass, Luke Burgess and Nathan Sheron, there were some introductions to the squad. But then it was quickly down to business to assess the fitness levels after the closed season and see how much work needs to be done to get the players ready for the campaign ahead.

After returning for a sixth spell in charge halfway through last season, Sheridan is moulding a new-look squad into his own, with more new faces expected through the Boundary Park doors in the coming days and weeks.

Latics begin their pre-season friendlies programme on July 9 with a trip to Bamber Bridge (kick-off 3pm).

Their first home friend is the following weekend, when they host Championship newcomers Wigan Athletic on July 16 (kick-off 1pm).