GARETH Horner is back at Amesbury Town and believes his side can compete with the best in the league.

The Blues have started the season with mixed results but will definitely be looking to improve on last season’s 19th place finish in the Sydenhams Premier Division.

Horner spoke to JournalSport about his teams chances in the league this season he said: “We have been delighted with our pre-season preparation. There was no doubting that the task in hand was a tough one but it was one that Carlo and myself felt we could overcome.

“We have had a decent start but we know what a hard task we have going forward. It’s a long season and lots of sides have healthy budgets but I feel we can compete with the best.”

The club have retained plenty of the squad who were at the club last year, including: “The youthful quartet of Kieran, Cameron, Luke and Paddy, and held on to Ben Cook, Craig Wheeler and Danny Field which was paramount,” Horner said.

Liam Gavin, Harry Baddeley, Craig Jennings and Cameron George also stayed on.

The club added Harry Beckley and Jordan Matthews.

Horner said the initial plan at the club is to rebuild the squad. and said: “We are happy with how we have started and how the squad has taken shape.

“But we are still in the market for one or two and we will see how that progresses.”

Amesbury have played four league games so far this season. Horner said: “We are a young group but it’s exciting times both on and off the pitch again at Amesbury town and something I am proud to be part of again.”

The Blues are currently 16th in the league after playing four games with just one win, which was against Brockenhurst, but will be looking to get back on track when they play Sholing at home in their next league game.