Chris Lynch hopes Sittingbourne will challenge for a play-off place this season.

The Brickies start their Isthmian South East campaign with a Kent derby at Whitstable on Saturday and welcome league new boys Cray Valley to Woodstock on Tuesday.

It's been a busy summer for boss Lynch who has overseen big changes to his squad and behind the scenes.

He said: "We've put in a lot of work and now it's time to go and see what we can do.

"I'm not going to sit here and say we're going to win the league.

"What we're looking to do is build on where we were last year.

"I set the boys high targets but that's the way to move forward.

"Realistically, I believe we're in a much healthier position this year and, with a bit of luck, we might end up somewhere near the play-offs.

"It won't be easy - it's a tougher league this year.

"A lot of clubs have brought in players from the league above and there's players released by pro clubs.

"It's going to be a difficult challenge."

Tyrone Guthrie has rejoined Sittingbourne in time for the opening weekend and is one of two midfield arrivals, with ex-Dover and Margate youth player Josh Oliver also signing.

They add to a strong squad who have been attracted by Lynch's methods.

The Brickies boss said: "We don't have the biggest budget in the league.

"For me, it's about players who want to come and play for you.

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"If they can see you've got their best interests at heart and want to progress them on the coaching field, that makes a difference.

"Players know it's a good set-up.

"We've got a massive backroom staff, lots of things other clubs won't have, like sports psychologists and nutritionists.

"It's all stuff behind the scenes that pro clubs have but not many will at this level.

"It all helps to create a good environment."

Jack Smith (fractured ankle) has joined Tom Loynes and Pat Lee on the sidelines but otherwise Sittingbourne are in good shape for their trip to face a Whitstable side who have a new boss in Lloyd Blackman.

Lynch said: "Lloyd's brought in quite a few players but in terms of how they play, I don't expect massive changes because it's his first pre-season.

"Again, I think they'll be strong but we're looking to give a good account of ourselves."

Sittingbourne warmed up for the season with goals from Shaun Brown and Corey Walters-Wright in a 2-1 win against Arsenal's community development side on Sunday.

They were treated to a tour of the Emirates Stadium before playing the friendly on a training pitch.

It followed a goalless draw between the sides at Woodstock last month.

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