FOOTBALL is set to return to the Raymond McEnhill Stadium next week.

Phoenix club Salisbury FC, formed from the ashes of the old Salisbury City, have assembled a squad of trialists ready for two friendly matches.

The first friendly is next Tuesday (April 28, 7.30pm) against Southern League opposition yet to be confirmed and on Friday (May 1, 7.30pm) Salisbury will host Cardiff City under-21s.

Admission will be pay what you want and the club hope fans will turn out in numbers and give generously towards running costs during summer and pre-season.

But, just as importantly, Salisbury are arranging the games as a big thank you to the fans for helping to get the club back to the Ray Mac and to compensate them for missing out on their football fix since City's demise.

Manager Steve Claridge said: "The squad will consist of players I know, players who have contacted me and players I want to look at for next season.

"Not one has asked for a penny in expenses which shows a good attitude and that people want to play for this club."

A Salisbury FC statement added: "We hope for big attendances for the games, especially on Tuesday as it will show the FA what we can achieve ahead of meeting with them on Wednesday morning (April 29) when we will present our case for a return to the National League System for the 2015/16 season."