Manager Steve Lovell told Ashford’s supporters that a new-look team will herald a new era for the club when the Ryman League Division 1 South season kicks-off on August 15.

Homelands has seen numerous comings and goings as the manager grappled with financial constraints, which led to the departure of many familiar faces.

Lovell has turned to local players and in have come Ryan Norman, Ben Robbins, Dan Scorer, goalkeeper Scott Chalmers-Stevens, Kevin Swaisland, former Cray Wanderers, Lordswood and Erith & Belvedere striker Nicky Smith and youngster Ricky McDonald, who had experience with Kilmarnock last season.

Of last season’s squad, nine have left while Paul Jones, Ryan Briggs, Danny Lye, Mitchell Sherwood and John Ralph have committed to the club.

Lovell said: "It’s a new-look team at the start of a new era for the club.

"I’m loving the challenge because the lads we’ve brought in are keen, enthusiastic and willing to learn. When you tell them something, they take it on board. No manager could ask for more, that’s why I’m so excited."

With three pre-season friendlies still to play, starting with Saturday’s visit to namesakes Ashford (Middlesex), Lovell has plenty of time to continue rebuilding. On Tuesday they beat Faversham Town 2-1 having lost their previous friendly 2-0 to a strong Maidstone United side.

Newcomers Swaisland and McDonald were on target in the win against Faversham.

On Tuesday, August 4, Ashford visit Margate.