DANNY Barton has backed Guilsfield to climb the Huws Gray Alliance table, following a testing start to the campaign.
The striker will lead the line at home to Ruthin Town on Saturday, in another early season six pointer for the villagers.
However 37-year-old Barton had no qualms about insisting Guilsfield will not be embroiled in a relegation scrap come the end of the season.
“We have had a difficult start to the season but we have stuck together and the performances and results have improved,” said the ex-Newtown ace.
“At the start of the season everything was a bit new, but things have since settled.
“There is a brilliant set-up at Guilsfield and there are some excellent people behind the scenes, with the entire club all pulling in the right direction.”
Barton returned to the Welsh system during the summer, having spent three seasons with Ellesmere Rangers in the Midland Alliance.
“I enjoyed my time in England, it was a different type of challenge and we were quite successful in a few cups.
“When I had the chance to sign for Guilsfield I was keen because they are an ambitious club and play at a good level.”
Barton spent his early career with TNS before making his name with 41 goals in just 69 games with Rhyl.
Two successful years at Caernarfon Town were followed by a switch to Newtown in 2003, before a brief spell with Aberystwyth Town in 2006 to end his top flight career with 127 goals in 244 games.
Barton has yet to net for his new club, but added: “I am working on my fitness at the moment and I am confident that I can start scoring again soon.”
Defender Josh Evans has completed his transfer from Newtown, while midfielder Nathan Leonard has returned from Ellesmere.
Caersws - minus the three points deducted for a breach rules - host Llangefni Town.
Manager Mickey Evans has barred talk of injustice following the deduction and told his players to look ahead.
“Llangefni have lost a few players but we must be ready for another tough test and try to get those three points back as soon as possible.”
Scott Williams is struggling with a back injury, with midfielder Geraint Lewis is a major doubt with an ankle injury.
Llanrhaeadr make the unenviable trip to Rhyl, with manager Mario Iaquinta expecting his side to be stretched.
“Rhyl are a top club with top players, but we go into this game with nothing to lose and we will just try and give 100 per cent,” said Iaquinta.