TOWN will have David Mirfin and the Clarke brothers at the heart of the defence this season.
Boss Peter Jackson admitted today they are pencilled into the starting slots with new signing Martin McIntosh and John McCombe pressing hard.
And while McIntosh, signed on two-year terms from Rotherham, has proven pedigree, Jackson wants McCombe to step forward and stake his claim.
"John was out of contract at the end of last season and I explained to him that with Mirfin and the two Clarkes (Tom and Nathan) playing so well, he would have a difficult challenge to get a regular first-team slot," explained Jackson, who jets out from Yeadon with his squad for the two-match Copa de Ibiza pre- season tournament tomorrow.
"Big John took all that on board and the great thing is that when I look back, he has never let me down.
"I know when I need to call on him he will be able to do the job.
"We are very fortunate to have three terrific young centre-backs and John McCombe is there pushing them all the time."
McCombe, 20, played seven times last season and started two of the final three League games against Brentford and Wrexham, helping Town finish with a record of eight wins and a draw.
"John's attitude, like all the lads who have come through our Academy, is spot on," added Jackson.
"He's got a big 12 months ahead of him."
