Will Forrester is relishing a stroll down memory lane as Wanderers step up their pre-season preparations.

Forrester could feature against two of his former clubs, having come through the ranks at Stoke City before heading to Port Vale in the summer of 2022.

The defender made a handful of senior appearances with the Potters and got his first taste of regular league football at Vale Park.

“When I saw the pre-season fixtures get released in the summer, I couldn’t believe it,” he told the club's matchday programme.

“I’ll always be grateful to both clubs. Stoke gave me a platform when I was five all the way up to making my debut for them at 18 or 19.

“Then at Port Vale, Carrell Clarke gave me an opportunity to express myself in the Football League and show what I’m about.

“I will always be grateful to both clubs and hopefully they give me a bit of a better reception this time!”

Forrester arrived at the Toughsheet Community Stadium last summer and went on to make 24 appearances in all competitions last term.

The 23-year-old had some promising performances but struggled to nail down a place in the side amid competition from the likes of Eoin Toal and Gethin Jones.

Forrester is now determined to seize any opportunities than come his way and make himself “un-droppable”.

However, the defender’s main priority is helping the team bounce back from their play-off pain at Wembley.

“It’s a massive season for me,” he continued. “I probably didn’t play as much as I would have liked last season.

“Hopefully this season, when I do get that opportunity, I can take it and try to make myself un-droppable almost and try to play as many games as possible.

“But the end target for everyone is the same, we went so close last season. We just want to take that extra step.”

Ian Evatt’s side got a good workout under their belts against Serie A outfit Fiorentina on Friday night.

Forrester played 70 minutes before making way for George Johnston, who is another defender added to the mix this season following a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Chris Forino will also be looking to break into the side after joining from Wycombe, although his pre-season preparations have been hampered by injury.

“Obviously, with the disappointing end to last season everyone is raring to go again and we are just looking forward to being back playing in front of the fans and giving it another right go this season,” said Forrester.

“We have played a few games now and everyone is starting to find their fitness.

“The longer pre-season goes on, everybody will be up to full speed and ready for that first game of the season against Leyton Orient.”