Workington Comets’ 2016 line-up took to the shale for the traditional press and practice session on Saturday.

The structure of Comets’ team for what could be a defining season in the club’s history was confirmed, with Ricky Wells back at No1, Kenneth Hansen at No3 and Mason Campton making a long-awaited comeback at No4.

Danish star Claus Vissing will slot in at No5 while Ty Proctor’s replacement, Rasmus Jensen, will start at No2.

Returning fan favourite Adam Roynon, back in Workington colours for the first time since 2012, will start at No6 while plucky youngster Matt Williamson returns at No7.

Team manager Tony Jackson said: “I think it’s a team packed with potential.

“I know I say this every year but I really genuinely believe they all have it in them to get better and win something.

“We’ve always been one of the better clubs but we’ve never won the league or the cup.

“It’s what the fans of Workington deserve.”

Comets owner Laura Morgan added: “First and foremost, to reach the play-offs is our main goal and I’d quite like to see us to do better in the cups.

“Looking at the lads going around today, there’s something special about it.

“I think we’ve got a good outfit this season and everybody’s commenting on the team spirit already.”

Five of the team’s seven riders took to the Workington shale in front of a busy grandstand, with Campton and Jensen absent.

Wells, who shone in Comets’ troubled campaign last year, said he hoped to fend off competition for the No1 spot this season.

He added: “It’s a team sport so I think we have to shoot high and at least win something, the first step being to make the play-offs.

“It would be good to get off to a strong start and carry that momentum into the season.”

Roynon seemed genuinely delighted to be back in West Cumbria after mixed success away from the area and said he hoped to conjure up similar performances to his previous impressive spell.

He said: “It’s a big thing for me to come back here after such a successful time and I’m coming in with the same sort of average I had then.

“If I can emulate that then with the experience I’ve gained since I’d hope for a good season.”

Comets will contest the Ian Thomas Shield over two challenge matches against Newcastle Diamonds this weekend.

They welcome the Diamonds to the Zebra Claims Stadium on Saturday at 7pm before travelling to Newcastle’s Brough Park at 6.30pm the following day.