Worthing boss: We won't feel sorry for ourselves - we want to do even better next season

Adam Hinshelwood says he and his players won't feel sorry for themselves over the manner in which they have missed out on promotion

Adam Hinshelwood says there is no way Worthing will feel sorry for themselves as they launch a new bid for promotion from the Isthmian premier division next season.

The men from Woodside Road were clear leaders of the division when football was halted in March.

But they are almost certain to be back at square one in 2020-21 as hopes fade that the FA’s decision to expunge results for non-league steps three and below can be overturned.

Hinshelwood admitted having a fine season written off would be a big blow but said he, his staff and players would have to take it on the chin and make sure they were ready to mount another serious title bid in the new campaign.

He is confident he will keep the majority of the squad together and add up to four new additions – including a goalkeeper to replace 18-year-old star Carl Rushworth, who excelled on loan from Brighton but who Albion are likely to have other plans for next term.

“I’ve been trying to keep in touch with all the players the best I can and I’m hoping that after Sunday, when the government are due to announce what’s happening next in the lockdown, I might have a bit more I can say about a date when something might be possible,” he said.

“The players are all healthy and keeping themselves fit – they’re a good group and are self-policing themselves really in that regard.

“From my point of view I have to plan as if we will have another tough season in the Isthmian premier.