Everyone has a part to play – Lowestoft Town boss

Lowestoft Town joint boss Ady Gallagher has insisted every member of the Blues squad has a vital role to play this season ahead of their trip to Leatherhead in the Ryman League Premier this afternoon, kick-off 3pm.

Lowestoft's strength in depth is such that it is inevitable some players are left unhappy when a starting XI is named but, with a rigorous schedule of fixtures, Gallagher wants everyone pulling in the same direction.

'It's obviously difficult keeping everyone happy because all the lads want to play,' he said. 'But I certainly hope the players are buying into the fact that they are part of an excellent squad.

'If they are contributing on the pitch then fantastic, if they are waiting their turn to contribute then they need to be patient and just keep working.

'They are here because they are good players and I'm sure everyone will make a contribution this year.'

Players like Richard Woodrow have decided to leave Crown Meadow in search of regular first team football but Gallagher does not anticipate any more departures in the near future.

Jamie Godbold got a taste of first team action in the 5-0 demolition of Concord Rangers last weekend after work commitments had kept him out of the club's first few fixtures.

Despite not being a first team regular for much of last season, Gallagher believes the midfielder is looking sharp and pushing for a starting berth having undergone an arduous fitness programme over the summer.

'It was good to get Godders on the pitch (against Concord) – it was his first meaningful contribution this year. I think the work that he has put in over the summer means there is more to come from him as well.

'He had a frustrating season last year but I think that was down to fitness.

'We spoke to him in the summer and he has got a new offer here to stay and he has responded to what was said to him.

'He has got himself much fitter and he has had a fantastic pre-season, looking really sharp. He has had to be patient and I'm certain with other minutes he has got plenty to contribute.'

Dale Cockrill is still recovering from a knee injury ahead of today's trip to Leatherhead, who are still searching for their first win of the campaign after coming up from Division One South last season.

Greg Crane is unvailable as he completes the second match of his two-game ban for his dismissal against Lewes on the opening day of the season.

Scott Mitchell is once again likely to partner Sam Gaughran at the heart of the back four.