Select your training method carefully as each program will have different effects on your players skills (e.g. Circuit Training for stamina, Outdoor Game for overall skills/set piece practice, and Indoor Game for passing).

Avoid prolonged use of any single method, as this can reduce player morale and may also lead to injury. In June you may give your players a break, but resume training in July.

Before getting a player on loan it's wise to know how good he is, as even a player from a higher division may have lower skills than most of your own squad. Find an available player first and, when asked how many weeks you require him for, enter a very high figure. This should abort the loan, and then enable you to send out a scout to have the player watched. Compare his skills with those of your own players and, if suitable, go and borrow him.

When placing players on the transfer list, try not to price them too highly, or you may scare off other clubs. Examine a player's value from the Contracts screen and use a figure similar to this. Remember either to send a scout or watch a player in action before purchasing to avoid wasting valuable cash.

As you climb the leagues, think about getting rid of as many of your old players as you can, this enables you to replace them with newbies with skills to match their opponents. Remember, one good player is more valuable than two average ones.

A really good goalkeeper is the best type of player to go for first. When in Division 3 try to save up £100,000 plus for your goalie, which will solve half of your problems.

It's possible to make money by giving a full contract to a trainee (only select the very best), and then putting him straight on the transfer list. Give him time though, and his skills will blossom so you can sell him for a higher price.

Remember to check your players contracts and re-negotiate with valued players regularly. A player out of contract may choose to walk out on your club and you'll not receive full value for him in compensation.