Jamie Day hopes Braintree Town’s fans will stay patient as his new-look team begin the Vanarama National League season.

It has been a testing summer at the Avanti Stadium after all but three members of last year’s regular squad - Michael Cheek, Simeon Akinola and Chez Isaac - departed in the wake of the exit of former boss Danny Cowley.

Day has taken over as manager and after having completely rebuilt the squad, he is hoping fans remain tolerant as the new players continue gelling in competitive action - starting at National League new boys North Ferriby today.

“It’s looking a lot better than it did in week one,” said Day.

“The boys are getting on well, but it’s not done and dusted and we can’t think we’ve got it sorted.

“It will take time, but they have all got on very well with friendships off the pitch and strong partnerships on it.

“They are a good bunch and I think they have gelled pretty well considering the position that they’ve all been put in.

“Obviously time will tell if there are times when people aren’t playing or results that matter go against us and we’ll see how people react but it’s looking good so far.

“I just hope people are patient with us.

“Anyone who knows anything about football knows you can’t just throw 16 or 17 boys together in a new system and expect everything to be perfect in the first game.

“That won’t happen and it will take time, but the boys have done everything that’s been asked of them.

“However, that’s been pre-season without the pressure of having points at stake and if we think we’re done and dusted then then we’re wrong as it won’t be as easy as that.

“Other teams will have kept a core of players together and spent money to add a few over the summer so there are going to be sides in better positions than we are.

“But I’m patient, I know people at the club are and I hope the fans are as well “I’m happy with the balance of the squad as we have youngsters and some older ones, we have pace and we have grafters in there as well.

“I would have liked to have had them for a year and be going into our second year together, but that’s not the case.

“It will take time and people will have to be patient but they can be sure that everyone is giving 100 per cent.

“It’s just down to me to manage things if it does get a bit low.”