As speculation surrounds the future of former Nostell striker Oli Johnson, for the moment, the Horbury-based goalscorer remains contracted to Stockport County.

A number of clubs including West Brom and Premier League side Fulham have shown a keen interest in the young frontman.

But as yet, none have made a firm move for his signature.

As part of the deal that took Johnson to The Hatters in 2008, the League One club agreed a pre-season friendly at the Welfare Ground ahead of Miners' forthcoming third season in the Koolsport NCEL.

Despite uncertainty at Edgeley Park following recent financial difficulties, the game is the scheduled curtain-raiser for both clubs on Saturday July 18th, 2009 (kick-off 2.30pm).

And while County have promised a strong first-team turn-out, there is no reason to expect the Miners to be overawed by the occasion.

Last season, they overturned the visitors 3-2 at the end of August and played some of their most productive and attractive football of the whole campaign.

A creditable achievement given that the Cheshire side finished a respectable 18th in League One.

And that, despite their in-house upheavals.

However, County arrive in West Yorkshire this time on a much firmer footing.

The administrators have agreed a deal to sell the club to a consortium fronted by former Leicester and Manchester City player Jim Melrose.

So, the visitors will want to give a good account of themselves for their new bosses.

And, with the Miners out to impress against a team six leagues to the good, this should prove be an ideal scene-setter for the season ahead.