Diss Town manager not planning to make a number of new signings after recent return of striker

Steve Eastaugh has made his first signing as Diss Town manager, but that will not spark a plethora of incomings at Brewers Green Lane.

Earlier this week the recently-appointed boss moved to bring Ashley Rankin back to the club from fellow Thurlow Nunn League First Division North side Cornard United.

The forward had a stint with the Tangerines last term, during which time he scored two goals in seven appearances.

However, while former Norwich United chief Eastaugh has admitted he may bring in one or two more fresh faces over the coming weeks, he is happy to work with what he has inherited.

“We needed a forward that likes to run in behind and get on the end of crosses because that is how we want to play,” said Eastaugh, whose first game in charge of Diss last weekend ended in a 2-0 defeat at Sheringham.

“Ryan Fuller is our top scorer and he is still suspended for another three games. Ryan not being there has an impact on what we want to do so we needed some help, which Ashley will provide.

“We are looking at things in terms of further additions, but I have also got a squad that is perfectly capable.

“We are at the end of February and so a lot of players are established at their clubs – they would rather talk in the summer, which is fine.

“You might be able to get lads who are keen to make the step up from a lower level, but that is obviously risky because you never know how it will work out.

“It is something we might do because there is plenty of potential at a lower level, but it will be one or two maximum because we do not need an overhaul.”

The loss at Sheringham provided Eastaugh with a first opportunity to see his players in competitive action. He had few qualms with the result, but believes there were positive aspects to the performance.

“We acquitted ourselves well and were competitive throughout the game,” he said.

“Sheringham just had that little bit more quality. They have scored from a free-kick and 25-yarder that has flown into the top corner.

“We have a lot to do and that is tough because we are at a time of year when our time with the players is limited. We cannot get on the pitches because they are waterlogged.

“We will just have to pinch time when we can, and that is what we will do. It is a young squad, but one that is keen to improve.”

Tomorrow, Eastaugh’s 10th-placed side will welcome Needham Market Reserves, who are two places below them (3pm).