Southend "well prepared" for opening match of the season says manager Dyer
The Shrimpers are travelling to Altrincham for the opening game of the National League season
Southend United's manager Kieron Dyer says the squad is "well prepared" for their match against Altrincham.
It is his first competitive game in charge of the club, with the match getting underway at 3pm today (Saturday 8th August).
Speaking at a press conference this week, Dyer said that the squad is "really well prepared" and that there are "no excuses" if there is a poor performance.
He said the game against Altrincham is set to be a "tough challenge".
"In the first 10-15 minutes they are going to come at us, come out of the traps flying. We fully expect that, but we feel at some point in that game we're going to take control of the game and hopefully our quality will come through."
When asked about the fans who are travelling to the game, he said:
"They love this football club and they support the football club.
"We're going to need them, and it's nothing like a first game of the season.
"Hopefully the sun is shining and we give them something to cheer about."
New club captain Oli Coker told the media that the squad is "looking strong" and he is optimistic for the Shrimper's promotion push this season.
Coker said he is "buzzing" to get the season started:
"A start against Altrincham is obviously going to be a tough game, but we're buzzing and ready to go."
"Promotion is the only thing we are looking at this year.
"I feel like this year is the year."
Southend United host their first home match of the National League season next weekend against Scunthorpe.