THE World Cup seems to barely be over and it’s still barbecue weather, yet some footballers kick off their competitive seasons on Saturday.

Players from Pershore Town, Stourport Swifts, Littleton and Westfields could well be forgiven for allowing their minds to wander back to relaxing on the beach with not a care in the world.

But, after a no-doubt torturous pre-season, they will be getting the newly formed Midland Football League under way — rather early if you ask me.

The Midland Alliance has become the new Premier Division involving Swifts and Westfields, while clubs from the Midland Combination top-flight, such as Pershore and Littleton, make up Division One.

They must have a busy schedule ahead as starting a week early does seem a little excessive for amateur players at that level.

Meanwhile, the professionals at Kidderminster Harriers and part-time Worcester City begin their Conference campaigns the following Saturday as do the Southern League and West Midlands League.

After one of the most bizarre summers at perhaps any football club ever, Hereford United are one of those due to kick off on August 9 at home to St Neots Town.

But perhaps someone should remind Southern League bosses that the Bulls cannot even use Edgar Street for football at the moment? Herefordshire Council chiefs were not satisfied the club could meet their safety certificate requirements and refused to issue one.

The heavily in-debt club are trying to agree a Company Voluntary Arrangement while the identity of most of their young squad is strangely kept under wraps, but surely the use of their stadium is rather crucial if they are to stand any chance of starting the season?