DAVID HODGSON will welcome at least one new signing when his Darlington squad reassemble for pre-season training on July 4 - midfielder Stephen Thomas.

Hodgson believes the return to fitness of Thomas will be like signing a new player, 12 months after the 25-year-old joined Quakers from Wrexham on a free transfer.

Despite making his debut in the opening day win over Grimsby, Thomas was restricted to just 12 starts last season due to injury and illness. After recovering from a virus, and then a hernia, the Teessider missed the remainder of the season with a hamstring injury.

But, as the luckless midfielder continues to build up his fitness ahead of next month's preparations, Hodgson is predicting a change in fortunes.

"I think Stephen was glad to see the back of last season because he had horrendous luck with injuries," said Hodgson.

"If anything though, that will only make him more determined to come back stronger as a player next season.

"In effect, it will be like signing a new player and I'm sure Stephen will be desperate to do well."

Meanwhile, Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins has played down reports linking Quakers with a move for striker Paul Connor.

While Hodgson has confirmed his interest in the Bishop Auckland-born frontman, who scored 13 goals last season, the League One newcomers have yet to receive an approach for the player.

"This is the first I've heard of Darlington being interested in Paul Connor," said Jenkins. "We haven't had an offer for or a phone call about any of our players from other clubs."

Hodgson is also keen to talk to released Macclesfield striker Matthew Tipton and Colin Larkin, who has been freed by Mansfield. Tipton is wanted by a host of clubs, including Barnsley, Mansfield, Wrexham, Swansea and Cheltenham.

Boston United have signed Lincoln City's Ben Futcher after missing out on Quakers' defender Matt Clarke last month. The Pilgrims have also completed the capture of former Middlesbrough striker Noel Whelan from Aberdeen on a free transfer.