WADHAM Lodge FC have had to rebuild their squad following a number of exits from the club during the summer.

Neil Day has taken over the vacant manager role after former boss Tony Ievoli and a number of players left the club at the end of last season when they finished sixth in the Essex Senior League.

Day, who was assistant manager last season, said it will be a tall order to emulate the achievements of the previous campaign.

He said: “Although it was great to finish sixth, it doesn’t necessarily mean the bar is set there for this season.

“As per last season, it’s important to manage expectations with realistic aims and targets in mind, we’re having to virtually rebuild the squad during the summer so clearly the committee and supporters will have to show a little patience as we strive to hit upon the right formula.”

Former Enfield 1983 and Ilford boss Kevin Lucas joins Day as his number two to boost Lodge’s backroom team.

Day said he was delighted to have someone with Lucas’s experience on board and is hopeful he will be able to attract some additional players to the Matchday Stadium.

“Very slowly the pieces of the jigsaw are falling into place. Kevin has won the league as a manager and his experience will be invaluable, he will be focusing on the recruitment area as we look to replace some very good players from last year,” he said.

“It’s an exciting time and the backing of the chairman has been first rate as we look to pull it all into place. Hopefully, the future’s bright at the club despite all the hard work ahead.”