Haydn Hollis can’t wait for Chesterfield’s new season to start against Dover Athletic

The Spireites start their second season in the National League with a home match against Dover Athletic on Saturday, followed by a trip to Maidenhead United the following Tuesday.

Hollis, who spent the last campaign at the Proact before turning his season-long loan into a permament stay, said: “It’s not long away at all.

“Friendlies are brilliant but there’s nothing like real competition games, where there are points on the line.

I can’t wait to get going. I’m actually really looking forward to the season, hopefully we can be right in the (promotion) mix.”

The centre-half, released by Forest Green Rovers this summer, has signed a 12-month deal at the Proact.

He played 35 times in the defence last season under first Martin Allen and then John Sheridan.

He formed a partnership with Will Evans and earned praise from boss Sheridan for his performances from January.

Talking about the manager’s summer acquisitions, Hollis added: “He’s brought some good players in, but most importantly at this level especially, the right characters.

“You need the right characters in the dressing room.

“We’ve got a good set of lads in there.”