Eight new players were at Christie Park for the start of pre-season training last Thursday but McIlroy told The Visitor on Tuesday he wants two or three more players and is 'looking all over the park'.

And the Shrimps boss confirmed that Accrington's Ian Craney was one target, although Stanley have so far rejected any approaches for their player.

McIlroy said: "I need another two or three players. A lot of players left last year and I have brought a few in but we have just really filled in for people from last year.

"Ian Craney is a player I have admired and we have inquired about him but they have turned back every approach we have made.

"The directors are working very hard for me. It is about getting the right agreement with both parties. We will be working right up to kick-off."

When asked about the speculation, Accrington boss Coleman said: "I am sure Ian Craney will not go to Morecambe."

There has also been some speculation about Carl Baker's future with Stockport believed to be interested in the attacker.

McIlroy was aware that clubs may come in for his players and that part-exchange deals may be possible with some players.

McIlroy said: "I am looking at players to strengthen More-cambe. There maybe a case where a club comes in for one of our players and says you can have my player.

"There was a lot of talk about Baker leaving last season and there is going to be speculation but there is nothing concrete.

"Carl Baker is one of our key players. I am trying to build a squad here, that is what it is all about. At the present time, he is a Morecambe player."

McIlroy admitted that in pre-season 'things can change in a day' and expected lots more speculation and movement ahead of the big kick-off on August 9.

The Shrimps boss has been pleased with the condition of his players after their holidays.

"Pre-season is very important for fitness but the lads have come back in decent shape. The players look after themselves more in the summer than they used to."

The Shrimps start their friendlies with trips to Barrow on Tuesday and Burscough next Wednesday. The majority of the first team squad will go to Barrow with more of a fringe side travelling to Burscough.

That game will feature the several triallists currently at Christie Park, including former Chester defender Phil Bolland who has been training with the club.