Saints boss Scott Ruscoe admits he is looking forward to the prospect of retaining the Welsh Premier League for the first time as manager when his side's 2018/19 campaign kicks off on Sunday.

TNS host Barry Town United in their league opener on Sunday, three days after their Europa League clash with FC Midtjylland in Cardiff.

Saints are chasing an eighth straight league title, but Ruscoe is adamant his stars won't be carrying a European hangover into the season opener.

"It’s good to be defending my first league as manager," he said.

"The Welsh Premier League is our priority; yes, we can have these adventures in Europe but we’re at the point in Europe where we’ve earned more money than before.

"These next two games in Europe are two where people are saying we’re not going to get through but let’s have a look at that.

"From then, there main point of concern for us is the start of the season and we won't be taking Barry for granted because they beat us at home last season and they always give us a tough test.

"I think the challenge this season will come from Connah's Quay, now that Bangor City have dropped out of the league. I think Cardiff Met will be there while Bala Town are always there or thereabouts.

"Cefn Druids have made some good signings but I think the main rivals will be Connah's Quay and Bala Town.

"This season, because of the squad and the players we've got in there, I think we can rotate them a bit more. We should be able to put a side that's as good as the next team, and if we make three or four changes, those players coming in will not weaken us at any point.

"In the past, we may have had to have kept the same starting XI because the back-up options we had to field may have taken something away from the team.

"This year, we've got competition for places all over the pitch."

Kick-off is 2.30pm.