Thompson hoping to complete squad

Having had just seven players under contract upon his appointment, Thompson has already managed to sign TEN new players since his unveiling almost four weeks ago, but the Magpies boss still hopes to bring-in three more to complete his squad.

And, with pre-season training now underway, Thompson has targeted an un-named target, out-of-contract midfielder Ben Hutchinson and Sheffield United's Ian Ross in a bid to complete his squad in the near future.

"I am chasing three players right now," the County boss told the Official Website.

"They are all midfield players who I believe would fit into our squad very well."

Though Thompson remains hopeful of securing a long-term loan deal for 19-year-old Ross, Hutchinson - released by Brentford - remains a longer shot.

"His girlfriend is due to give birth very soon and he doesn't really want to move away from London," he admitted.

The 24-year-old is regarded as a fine player, but has attracted interest from Port Vale, Tranmere and Huddersfield, as well as big-spending Conference outfit Oxford Utd.

"(With Ross) Obviously that will come down to budget and if Neil (Warnock) can do us a favour with wages, but I think he would fit in," said the former Cambridge boss.

"I have spoken to him with Neil's permission and the boy seems very keen."

Thompson has been afforded one of the top budgets in League Two, but has been told that it is one that is expected to harbour a top seven finish, after the Magpies woeful efforts of the past two seasons.

But the Magpies boss is already winning over the club's supporters, who were angry at his appointment. A whopping 87.8% announced they were happy with his signings in the latest NCM poll.

As well as naming his captain for the upcoming campaign, Thompson has also unveiled the squad numbers for next season earlier today.

New signings Jason Lee and Lawrie Dudfield have been handed the number 9 and 10 shirts respectively, while versatile youngster Dan Martin will be wearing the number 8 jersey.

16-year-old YTS Stefan Frost has been handed the number 14 shirt. The full list of numbers is below.

Squad Numbers 06/07

1. Kevin Pilkington
2. David Pipe
3. Austin McCann
4. Mike Edwards
5. Alan White
6. Matt Somner
7. Liam Needham
8. Dan Martin
9. Jason Lee
10. Lawrie Dudfield
11. Andy Parkinson
12. Gary Silk
14. Stef Frost
15. Tcham N'Toya
16. Jake Sheridan
17. Tommy Hannigan
18. Stephen Hunt
19. Bobby Wilson
20. Junior Mendes

---

For all the latest transfer news and gossip, stay tuned to NCM.