Magnus is relishing backs battle

The former Colchester captain is one of five options that boss John Still has in his ranks, with Steve McNulty, Luke Wilkinson, Scott Cuthbert and Mark O’Brien also vying for the position.

Okuonghae knew full well it would be the case before putting pen to paper, but admitted it was one of the reasons for opting to sign.

He said: “Some people are probably scared of that and try to stay away from that, but I think it’s a good thing for us.

“Overall, as a club to have some success, you need competition like that, so it’s brilliant.”

It’s not just in defence where Still has strengthened this year and the depth of the squad has clearly caught Okuonghae’s eye as he continued: “The signings are boys I’ve been playing against in League One for the last couple of years.

“It goes without saying that he’s brought in very good quality and there’s going to be very good competition. Hopefully it stands us in good stead if everyone can stay fit.”

Okuonghae believes with the new-look squad in place, they can achieve their goal of promotion this time.

He added: “I think everything is in place to do that, the staff, the training ground, things like that.”