CAERNARFON Town manager Sean Eardley has told his side to “show no fear” as they make their long-awaited return to the JD Welsh Premier League this weekend.

The Cofis take on Europa League qualifiers Cefn Druids on Sunday in front of the S4C Sgorio cameras, with anything between 800 and 1,200 supporters expected at The Oval for their top flight opener.

Eardley said: “I am absolutely buzzing for Sunday, the lads have been looking really sharp and I think that talk in the week before the season is cheap so we need to put in a performance in front of the cameras as all eyes are going to be on us.

“We had a training session tonight (Tuesday) and the squad have given me a real headache in terms of selecting a side against Cefn Druids, which is a nice problem to have.

“It is going to be a massive test and I have a lot of respect for Huw (Griffiths) and the job he has done there. They did the WPL proud in Europe and they have already played competitive football this season but I am hoping the Cofi Army turn out in force as they are going to be our 12th man this season.”

Eardley has kept faith with the majority of the squad that got them back to the promised land, and after a pre-season meeting “before a ball was kicked” he questioned each player individually regarding what their hopes are for their top-flight campaign.

The Ancients represent a significant test for the Canaries in their opening fixture, with the club further buoyed by the recent signing of former Bangor City striker Dean Rittenberg this week.

“Hearing all the different answers I got really gave me the belief that there is a confidence within the group, but we have to have save same drive and belief and make the most out of our home games as the atmosphere is quite intimidating at times,” added Eardley.

“I want every one of them to express themselves and take the game to the opposition and show no fear. Of course, against the likes of TNS, Bala Town and Connah’s Quay you are going to have to be more disciplined but win, lose or draw I want our opposition to know they have been in a game.

“This summer has been another huge learning curve for me and I consider myself extremely honoured to be going up against some of the best managers in the country and it is a challenge I will relish.”