FC CLACTON manager Glenn Eldridge is adamant he can revive the club’s fortunes – when his depleted squad gets back to full-strength.

The Seasiders’ win-less start to the Thurlow Nunn League premier division season continued with Tuesday’s 5-1 defeat at home to Felixstowe and Walton.

It came hot on the heels of Saturday’s 2-0 FA Cup exit at the hands of London Tigers.

Had they won, they would have teed up a mouth-watering first qualifying round tie at home to neighbours Brightlingsea Regent.

However, Eldridge is convinced his side will start firing soon, when key players become available again.

“I hate to keep going on about people being injured and unavailable but it’s such a problem for me at the moment,” he said.

“We’re missing players who would get into most sides in our league.

“I’m getting judged because of our results but to some extent it’s out of my hands.

“There’s nothing I can do.

“I’m having to beg and borrow and it’s a mission just getting a side out.

“I’ve never come across anything like this before and I feel I can only be judged when I’ve got everyone back.

“I feel it’s a bit unfair that my position is being scrutinised, because of the start we’ve made.

“Last season when we got out of trouble it was because we had a settled side.

“This time we’ve played six games and I’ve used three keepers. That says it all."

For the full story, see this week's Gazette.