Preparations for the new campaign were hampered by the club's long-running ownership saga but the completion of Dave Marshall and Karen Bailey's takeover means Hall and coach Tony Miller are now busily casting their eyes around for affordable talent.

Financial restraints mean it is highly unlikely that the Dons can afford to bring Zeb Luisi and Corey Lawrie - two of last season's promotion-winning side - back to the Keepmoat.

But Hall thinks the squad only needs a few more additions to be a competitive force when they travel to Barrow in their opening league fixture on March 14.

He said: "We're not far away from having a squad that can hold its own next season.

"People think it is all doom and gloom here - but we're only four or five players away from a squad that can compete well in this division.

"It is a matter of trying to bring in good quality players once we have identified them."

The Dons are concentrating their efforts on strengthening their options in the half back, centre and prop departments but have no imminent signings planned this week.

Hall added: "We're looking around for players but we don't want to panic and bring in just anyone."

Loan signings are another recruitment avenue the Dons may go down but Hall concedes temporary moves are not likely to materialise until other clubs have had chance to assess their squads in pre-season.

The Dons are also scouring local talent for fresh blood and Hall and Miller checked out last weekend's Yorkshire Division Two clash between Bentley Good Companions and Doncaster Toll Bar.