Matty Templeton believs Worksop Town are heading in the right direction

Matty Templeton is confident Worksop Town will keep getting better. Photo: Mike Holmes.

Worksop-born Templeton (23) says the Tigers have stepped up their level of professionalism following boardroom and managerial changes.

“It’s been a series of drastic changes in recent months.” he said. “From the new pitch to all the new staff, it looks like a club that will be going somewhere. I don’t think we’ve had that kind of professionalism at the club [before].

Worksop recently returned to training as they gear up towards a provisional September 19 start date for the new Northern Premier League South East Division season.

And Templeton is keen to see fans back at Sandy Lane as soon as the go-ahead is given.

“I know quite a few fans here that go home and away,” he added. “It means a lot to them and it does mean a lot to me, certainly being from Worksop.

“I think when the lads see all the fans here, and those that travel away, it will spur them on to succeed.

“We always travel in big groups, so I do think they will see how much it means for the fans.”

Templeton has shown signs of brilliance when he has been fit but has battled with injuries more than any player would like to.

However, he has taken advantage of the lockdown to try and get himself in shape for the new season.

He added: “I’ve had a few personal training sessions with Louie Maguire.

“He’s been basing it solely on football: he’s been helping me with technical moves with the ball, he’s helped my sharpness on the ball, and passing drills, with the main focus being my first touch and shooting.

“I haven’t been as excited about playing football as I am now. I am really buzzing and I can’t wait to see where we can go as a team; we just need to stick to the plan.

“I want to stay as fit as I can, and I would like to cement a permanent place in the team that I can stick to. I want to show the new staff what I’m all about and get back to how I used to be.”

Templeton began his career in the Barnsley youth ranks, before playing for Gainsborough and North Ferriby United. In January 2018 he joined Matlock Town.