Following a narrow play-off semi-final defeat, seven players walked out on Met Police, but boss Jimmy Cooper is still optimistic ahead of the new season.

The Blues’ 2-1 defeat to Hendon, proved to be the last game for seven players – including defender Steve Sutherland – who decided to make the move away from Imber Court.

He said: “At the start of pre-season I was very concerned. Losing seven players is never good and it leaves a big hole in the team.

“We lost Steve [Sutherland] and he had a formidable partnership with Rob Bartley last season, so it’s always difficult to find adequate replacements.”

But now, with several new arrivals – with more expected over the coming weeks – the manager sees plenty of positives.

“We’ve gradually brought in some really good players and a few of them have surprised me with their quality.

“Reece Yorke has joined us from Slough Town and he in particular has impressed us all at the club. He’s a central defender so should do well alongside Bartley,” he added.

“Johnnie Dyer and Dee Okojie have also shown real quality in pre-season and I’m very excited by how the two forward players will perform.

“We were strong last season, but the squad looks even stronger now. Pre-season is going well and we’re happy with our progress.

“We want to win the league, but that is always difficult in this division, but another play-off challenge is well within our grasp.”

Met Police continue their pre-season campaign at Godalming this weekend, and they kick-off the new season at home to Staines Town on August 8.