 The on-field success was attributed to new manager Harry Storer, who was managing his first club following a notable playing career in which he made two international appearances for England and also played first-class cricket.Before the start of the 1931–32 season he signed Clarrie Bourton and Jock Lauderdale, both of whom would go on to have storied careers with the club.Bourton, in particular, was an instant success and other clubs became interested in signing him a few months into the season.