Boss Sammy McIlroy says match fitness is the goal as his side's friendly campaign begins in earnest at Barrow on Tuesday evening.

The Shrimps play three games in five days with a trip to Burscough on Wednesday followed by a game against a strong Preston North End first team on Saturday at Christie Park.

McIlroy says he will diviide his squad up for the first two games with one set of players travelling to Barrow and the other making the journey to Burscough.

Said McIlroy: "In the past we would probably have sent all the squad to both games and mixed and matched but I want as many players as possible to have almost a full game under their belts as soon as possible instead of coming on for short cameo bursts.

"At this stage of the preparations fitness is everything. Although it is nice to win, the results are pretty much secondary to fitness. The lads have worked extremely hard so far and this is the next stage as we look to make sure everyone peaks for the start of the season properly on August 9.''

One player who won't be available for the midweek games is Carl Baker who has picked up a calf strain with McIlroy hoping he is available to play some of the game against Preston on Saturday.

Looking ahead to that game he said: "I believe Preston are bringing a very strong squad and that will be a real test for us so early in the pre-season campaign. It should be a game that brings in a decent crowd as well as it is our first match at Christie Park of the new season.''

TICKETS for the Barrow friendly are £6 for adults and £3 for concessions.