East Grinstead Town boss upbeat as pre-season begins
And Johnson is also hoping to make at least two quality additions to his squad ahead of the start of the Sussex County League campaign on August 8.
He said: "We started training on Tuesday and I couldn't wait - with one or two new players on top of those already here I think we can compete in the first division this season.
"I am speaking to some players and I've heard that others may turn up for pre-season. Things are on the up at the club and I'm confident we will have a good year."
Paul Thomsett will again be assisting Johnson, but a third member of the management team may be added soon.
Grinstead have arranged three high-profile friendlies at the GAC Stadium, starting against Crystal Palace on Wednesday, July 29 (7.30pm).
On Saturday August 1 Walton and Hersham are the visitors (3pm) and two days later Wasps entertain Conference outfit Crawley Town (7.30pm).
Johnson said: "They are three quality games to test the squad. We may slot in one more away from home but it is only five weeks before we kick off again and that time will soon come round.
"We will get the boys as fit as possible although, as is always the case with part-time players, the boys will also have to work on their fitness in their own time."
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