Tommy Widdrington insists Eastbourne Borough’s more senior players are vital to the progress the club are making.

Despite budget restrictions, Borough are currently tenth in National League south after a decent start to the season.

A largely young squad have exceeded expectations so far and Widdrington says the balance in the group is the key to things.

He told The Argus: “Ian Simpemba, Adam Watts and Nathan Collier and a little Craig Stone – those they have been the course and distance. They know what it is like to get out of this division, they know what it is like to be successful in this division.

“The other guys are a little bit flying by the seat of their pants and enjoying playing football in the first team every week, which is a good blend. It keeps them grounded.

“I am pleased so far with what we have achieved, I am pleased with where we are sitting points tally wise and I’m delighted we are in the next round of the FA Cup.”

Widdrington recruited carefully in the summer with the likes of Collier, Stone, Miguel Baptista and Elliott Romain added to the squad.

He believes the group is stronger for the additions but has warned his players must always be on their toes.

The Borough boss said: “We are a better squad and a better team this year than we were last year.

“We look more potent in attack and while we have had a couple of heavy defeats, as well as heavy wins, in general we look tighter.

“It is always a work in progress. If I see someone who can improve us slightly and can afford to bring him in then that will be case. If I have to let one out to bring one in, then I will do that as well.

“I am always out and about watching games. This is not a threat to anyone in the squad but they should always be careful that I am always looking to improve us.”

Kane Haysman is a doubt with a calf problem as Borough prepare to welcome Concord Rangers today.