St Albans City chairman Nick Archer has set a lofty target of 20 points from the first 10 games this season.

The Saints finished 13th in the league last year following an inconsistent campaign, but the chairman is optimistic about the new season.

His confidence, he says, he down to the squad joint managers James Gray and Graham Golds have assembled.

“We’ve got high hopes here. Twenty points out for 30 is what we’re looking for,” said Archer.

“I’m very pleased with the squad. It came together well this week and the two signings are important. Louie Theophanous looks like he can score goals and hopefully he’ll play himself in.”

Theophanous and Scott Thomas joined the club last week, bolstering City’s striking and defensive midfield ranks.

St Albans have a tough start to the season with trips to Truro City, Margate, Chelmsford City and Eastbourne Borough all in the first 10 games, as well as home games against Hemel Hempstead, Basingstoke Town and Ebbsfleet United.

Archer conceded as much, before adding that improvement on last season is most important.

“It’s frightening to think that we’ll have played seven league games by Bank Holiday Monday. When Hemel come to Clarence Park on August 31 it will be the seventh,” he said.

“That’s a very testing start for us.”

He added: “We want improvement over last year. We’re always looking to go one better in the league and the FA Cup and FA Trophy.”

The first hurdle for St Albans comes on Saturday at Gosport Borough, quickly followed by Oxford City on Monday.

“I’m definitely excited. The trip to Gosport is going to be fantastic - I can’t wait,” he said.

“It’s a big week for the club, with Oxford coming on the Monday so quick. We want to kick on as soon as we can.”