ROVERS manager Gary Brabin believes Tranmere have an advantage by being a full-time club going into next season.

Lois Maynard arrived at Prenton Park last week from part-time club FC Halifax Town - and Brabin says that was part of the reason behind his decision to join.

He said, "Lois will be stepping up to be full-time, which is something that he's really wanted.

"He has had interest from league clubs but when he came here and saw the size of the place, got a feel for the people around the place, "I think it was an easy decision for him.

"It helps us that he has experience of the league, he knows the types of grounds we'll be going to and the opposition. He has a hunger and desire too, is a physical lad, uses his energy to get forward and chip in with a few goals.

"The size of the club does have an advantage but what we have been trying to do here is saying to players who have had interest from league clubs is that this is a fantastic club who should be in the Football League.

"And what could be better than earning the right to play in the league by winning promotion?"

Brabin has so far made five new signings and has been busy scheduling pre-season.

He said: "It's been non-stop, and that's not just signing players, it's preparing pre-season, making sure we have the right type of games and the right workload.

"I want to give ourselves the best chance for when the season starts that we hit the ground running. But I'm under no illusion as to how difficult it is going to be.

"We are looking for a keeper and I'm delighted with what I've got over the line so far, but I won't be rushed into decisions and the goalkeeping one is certainly one of those."