Budd, O’Toole and more – Dean Cox delighted as Hillians build up to kick-off

He has added nine new faces to the ranks – including a pair of fan favourites returning to the club, Darren Budd and Rob O’Toole.

And Cox believes the squad, which also includes around half a dozen of last season’s line-up, should be capable of spending the season in the top half of the table – putting last year’s relegation battle behind them.

Midfielder Budd has joined after leaving Worthing while O’Toole makes the switch from Whitehawk – who he helped to Isthmian south east promotion last term.

Cox has also recruited a number of the players who impressed him in his spell as Lancing FC manager and has brought in Joe Shelley from Whitehawk, Kieron Pamment from Three Bridges and goalkeeper James Shaw from Hassocks.

Cox told us: “We had some targets in mind and have been fortunate to land them. And I was conscious of the need to get deals done early, which does not always pan out.

"I’m pleased with the boys we have brought in and we’re unbeaten in our first five friendlies – beating Faversham, Horsham YMCA, Hassocks and AFC Varndeanians and drawing with a good Brighton under-21 side.

“I know Buddy (Budd) well and when he became available he was an obvious one to talk to. He’s looked really fit in pre-season and I see him as an enforcer, cajoling the players around him and keeping standards high. It’s like having another gaffer.