Braintree Town chairman Lee Harding is hoping that the people of the town come out to support their local club for two important home games in the next week.

Harding feels a buoyant home support will give the Iron a lift as they host Chester on Saturday (kick-off 3pm) and then Sutton United on Tuesday (kick-off 7.45pm) in the Vanarama National League and is calling on fans to make sure the team are well-backed.

Despite the disappointment of losing at Dagenham and Redbridge on Monday, Braintree have been in good form recently, with manager Hakan Hayrettin and his players getting clear of the relegation zone and they are now looking to advance further clear of danger.

Harding said: "Hakan and the players are working very hard and he has reintroduced things that the club have always had in the past with a good dressing room spirit and a strong work ethic.

"It's well known that we were asset-stripped last summer and the damage that that did, but we now feel we are rebuilding.

"It is tough for us, but with a fair share of luck, I'm confident that we can pull clear now.

"We are not being complacent, though.

"We have a couple of big league games coming up and we need the Braintree faithful to turn up for them to add their support to the team.

"Four or even six points from the next two games would be a big lift and would send us into the games against Forest Green Rovers and Lincoln later in the month in a good position.

"We have an FA Trophy game at East Thurrock United to look forward to as well and points from the next two home games would mean we could head there and enjoy the occasion, so we're hoping the people of Braintree come out to support us."

Meanwhile, Harding said Hayrettin is looking at potential new signings this week as he looks to bolster his midfield after the departure of Simeon Akinola to Barnet and the returns of loanees Monty Patterson and Sam Matthews to their parent clubs.

"There are a few options Hakan is working on," added the Iron chairman.

"I know he is talking to a few people so there may be further news later in the week."