BROMSGROVE Rovers return from the summer recess this Saturday as they begin their pre-season warm-up against Walsall at the Victoria Ground (3pm).

Colin Lee's Nationwide Division One side is the first of eight opponents lined up for George Rooney's team before the season starts for real on Saturday, August 16.

Although not expected to be a full strength Walsall XI, Rooney believes his side will be given a stern test by the Saddlers.

He said: "I would think it would be their first year pros but I would think it would be a strong squad.

"I think it will be excellent for us, they will be fit and raring to go. It's just about getting fit and seeing how different individuals will perform."

The boss expects to use a squad of 16 players for Saturday's match, a pattern likely to be repeated for next Tuesday's home friendly with Woodford United of the United Counties Premier Division and other forthcoming games.

"I don't want to make it a farcical thing," Rooney said. "I am a great believer of getting something out of it rather than giving everyone 45 minutes.

"For me, all pre-season games are the same. They are a vehicle to be used to try things to get players match fit."

Some players will miss the Walsall visit because of holidays, but Rooney will be ready to test out a lot of new signings. Among the latest additions are Mark Atkins, Marcus Jackson and James Hill, all of who have trained with the side this summer.

However, Rooney has not heard anything of winger Jamie Hyde since he took over at the Victoria Ground.