Don Crosbie is delighted by the prospect of seeing Ashford United make their return to Isthmian League football on Saturday.

They host Carshalton Athletic in their opening Bostik South fixture of the new season, seven years after leaving the competition.

With legal battles and points deductions behind them, United are ready to do their talking on the pitch instead of in the courts.

Mr Crosbie said: “I said when I came back to the club I wanted to get us back where we were and have achieved that. We want to steady the ship this season and then look to progress.”

The United chief executive says the Homelands pitch has been passed fit following the postponement of the Southern Counties East League curtain raiser on July 29 when Sevenoaks Town refused to play, citing problems with a water sprinkler.

Mr Crosbie said: “The Football Association people were here on Sunday, fully passed the pitch, saying there were no problems or issues.

“We have been totally vindicated but are still upset with Sevenoaks’ attitude and will be seeking a full apology.”

Meanwhile, manager Danny Lye fears Dan Stubbs faces a long lay-off after the midfielder suffered a recurrence of knee trouble.

Stubbs needed reconstructive surgery after being injured in the FA Vase win at Newport (IOW) in January last year.

Lye said: “He is waiting on a scan but it looks like it’s another problem ‘with his ACL.

“Losing him is a big blow. I call him our ‘Mr Versatility’ because he gives us a bit of everything and can play in five or six different positions.”

New signing Sam Long also faces missing the opening day with a foot injury, meaning Lye has re-signed full-back Chris Elliott and wants to bring in another defender.