SWINDON Town’s pre-season schedule is ‘nearly built’ according to assistant manager Ben Futcher, after the club announced their first two summer fixtures this afternoon.

With Town heading to Carlisle United on the opening day of the 2017-18 League Two campaign, the club will be kicking off their warm-up fixtures with what has become an annual clash with Swindon Supermarine on Saturday, July 8, (3pm) before David Flitcroft takes his side to Toolstation Premier Division side Melksham Town on Tuesday, July 11, (7.30pm).

And Futcher has indicated that they are almost there on completing their pre-season diary, with the hope of player arrivals also on the horizon.

“It’s no secret that there is a lot to do but we’re not shying away from that,” he told the Adver.

“It’s been non-stop and we’ve been making inroads and good progress.

“(When it comes to pre-season), we have looked at the local community and local clubs and we want to keep the traditions going and give the fans the opportunity to come down and see some new players.

“That side is coming on really well and we have made a lot of progress on the games in pre-season and that is nearly built.

“We’re hoping to get some news on players soon. I know everyone gets frustrated that doesn’t come out straight away but it just takes time and I know that’s a cliché.

“We’re trying not to rush things and trying to do things right and hopefully we are getting there slowly but surely.”

Following a trip to Brunton Park on Saturday, August 5, Flitcroft and Futcher take their side to Norwich City in the Carabao Cup before being introduced to the County Ground against beaten play-off finalists Exeter City on Saturday, August 12.

With Town set to rack up 1,304 miles in their first three away games, which also includes a trip to Morecambe, Futcher knows it is not an easy start to the campaign.

“There are no easy games at the start of the season, any game you get is going to be difficult so we’re just delighted they’re out there,” he added.

“It’s a target for us and it gets your hairs on your neck standing up knowing that the season is not far away now. We’re just looking to build that squad to, hopefully, have a successful season.”

Meanwhile, Town skipper Nathan Thompson looks to have one foot out of the door with the 26-year-old reportedly looking set to have a medical with newly-promoted League One side Portsmouth today.

The defender, who has been at the club since turning professional back in 2009, sees his contract expire at the end of the month and despite having a new offer on the table, looks set for the south coast.