`Although it only seems like yesterday that we finished last season, this one is upon us already. We have the honour of hosting Staines Town in our opening fixture. As I have written in the programme notes, they have to be regarded as one of the favourites for the title. A tough game at the best of times but we will be missing no less than six players either through injury or suspension. Two of those are long term injuries. Ryan James will have a knee operation on Wednesday ruling him out for a few months and Orlando Smith will also be out for a similar period after he suffered a broken metatarsal in our pre season game at Egham Town a few weeks ago.

We have added a few players recently to lessen the blow of the six missing. Firstly Louis John signs on a months loan from Sutton Utd, Harry Tamplin has also signed for us. His last club was Luton Town so both players will be more than comfortable at this level. Two others who have featured in recent pre season games are Jon Nurse and Dan Brown. Jon won the Vanarama National last season at Barnet and has also played for Dagenham and Redbridge scoring the winning goal at Wembley for them in 2010 league 2 play off final. Dan is an ex Staines Town FC player who, if fit, will relish the opportunity to play against his old club.

One other player who has committed to the club is centre half Mekhail McLaughlin. He has signed a contract with us after coming through the youth team and we are delighted to have secured him for the foreseeable future.

Look forward to seeing you all throughout the season.

Coops