Leatherhead returned to pre-season training last week, with boss Richard Brady telling his players this is the time to be selfish.

After promotion to the Ryman Premier, the Tanners have signed three new names, with the promise of more to come, and seen four big names walk out the Fetcham Grove door.

Brady now has the task of moulding his new-look side into one that will stay in the Ryman top flight for longer than the one season they managed in 2011.

He said: “We’re the new boys in the league, so we’re going to have to put in that extra effort to survive.

“We’ve signed players with lots of experience at this level and higher, but it is down to me to blend them with the lads we already have at the club during pre-season.”

He added: “To be honest, pre-season is irrelevant in terms of results and who you are playing “It is all about being selfish as a footballer – you need to get fit, and you need to do those little things that I as a manager spot and that will get you in the first team come the opening game on August 9.”

There are no particular games that Brady is relishing more than other any. It is more about pitting himself against whoever comes up next.

He said: “We’re looking forward to the new season. It’s an odd time for players and managers alike because we just want to get started, get playing and into the serious stuff.

“I’m looking forward to going to the bigger grounds and playing the bigger teams. There will be no easy games, hence why we need to be putting in that extra effort.”

Tanners pre-season friendly programme starts this weekend at Sittingbourne, kick-off 3pm.