Director of rugby Les Ashe says Workington Town's more experienced players will have to step up this season - despite their tender age.

Youngsters like Tee Ritson, Jamie Doran and Callum Phillips will be classed as senior players in the current Town camp.

And Ashe says he is relying on them to help bring the next crop of players through the ranks.

"Some of our players are not that old themselves but now find themselves in the territory where they are classed as senior players," said Ashe.

"So, we are looking for massive leadership from them and to keep it all positive.

"We need them to look after the lads we have brought in as trialists and the young Cumbria Storm lads who have been training with us and may take part in the pre-season games.

"You look at Callum Phillips, who was a Scottish international at a tender age but we will expect him to stand up and be counted this season, along with a lot more.

"Some of the lads we bring in will be older than them but have not been in a professional structure before, so they will need help and encouragement."

Town are starting to gear up for their opening friendly against Widnes Under-19s on Saturday, January 21 at Derwent Park, kick-off 3pm.

Loan signing Ed Chamberlain joined the squad for the first time this week at training and Ashe said he fitted in well.

"It can't be easy coming up and meeting a new set of players," added Ashe.

"He's a young lad, obviously very level-headed with goals and targets.

"And, by playing regular football with us, he hopes he can progress up the pecking order at Widnes."

Conditioner Matthew Johnson has upped the stakes in training, bringing in more and more game related focus to sessions.

"We have a new coach and new structures, so some changes were inevitable," said Ashe.

"So, the lads are running through games plans and getting used to what the coach wants from them."