Neil Shipperley has declared himself satisfied with his debut season as Walton Casuals manager - despite finishing the season with six defeats.

Having been on the fringes on the play-offs for most of the season, the Stags finished up 12th in the table, but Shipperley insists that still represents real progress for a side that was, not so long ago, playing in the Combined Counties League.

“There were points in the season where we could have done better but, overall, we are really pleased,” said the former Chelsea and Crystal Palace striker.

“We lost our two strikers to other clubs, which happens.

“We also had some injuries and suspensions at key times and there i's no question that if we had our full side we would have stayed close to where we were but other managers in the league would probably say the same thing.”

Shipperley sees no reason why there should be a hangover from the disappointing end to the season and plans to make improvements during the summer.

“For once we will have a settled squad and everyone will be invited back after the break. We hope everyone returns and we will try and push on and better ourselves.

“No one likes to lose six on the bounce but that is done now and we move on.

“Everyone starts with a clean slate and everyones got to earn the right to play but I will definitely be looking to add to the squad as well.”