Margate v Maldon Town

CHRIS KINNEAR is urging Margate fans to be patient on the eve of the club’s return to Hartsdown Park.

The Margate boss has spread his net as he again attempts to build a squad, after relegation to the Ryman League, where they kick off their Premier Division campaign against Southern League play-off winners Maldon on Saturday.

Breaking off from a stroll in the country near his home, Kinnear admitted the season would be no walk in the park.

He said: "My message is: 'Be patient'. We are still ambitious but there is no short-term fix. We have lost nine players and we have had to rebuild."

Kinnear has spent his summer talking to other managers and players in an effort to find players.

Defenders Jelko Popovic, Hasim Deen and Kola Okiokulu, midfielder Gavin Herro, ex-Welling youngster Dean Standen, Ian Hilaire, and former favourite Leon Braithwaite are among a host of players that Kinnear and Kevin Raine have run their eye over in pre-season.

The club are seeking international clearance for Deen, who has represented Gambia, while Okiokulu, 23, was on Wimbledon’s books when Terry Burton was in charge, and recommended by Jimmy Coleman, former assistant manager at Lewes.

Braithwaite’s return is bound to excite Gate fans. The 32-year-old striker scored 35 goals in 131 appearances before moving to Dagenham and Redbridge in March, 2003.

He scored in the friendly at Burgess Hill, but has just started a new job as a fireman in east London, which may limit his availability early in the season.

Kinnear said: "Leon had his best years with us, and I kept in touch, and I have also been on a couple of courses with him. I think he will sign.

"I’m continuing to chase players, and we need forwards. We are creating chances but not taking them."

However, Kinnear confirmed they would not be pursuing an interest in former Lewes striker Marc Whiteman.