STEVE Bateman reckons the loss of Chesham's tenants could give the Meadow Men success this season.

Bateman felt Southall's groundshare of the Meadow meant the pitch was suffering because of too many games and costing his side valuable points at home.

The Generals will lose revenue with Southall's exodus, but Bateman feels it is a price worth paying as his side aims for promotion.

He said: "It could be the difference this season because we like to play and get the ball on the deck and pass it. We haven't always been able to do that because the pitch is taking a lot of games, but the fact that will now change has got to be a good thing.

"Also we haven't had to bring in seven or eight different players to compensate for the pitch."

Bateman is targeting a play-off spot this year as Chesham prepare for their second season in the Southern League Premier Division.

And he believes his squad is in good-shape to better last season's mid-table finish.

He said: "We are unbeaten in pre-season which hopefully means that physically we are prepared in the right way.

"I have assembled a good squad and made a couple of changes in the centre of defence.

"We are very strong as an attacking force and hopefully we have improved physically."

Goalkeeper Alan Foster, formerly with Thame, has signed for the Meadowmen after impressing in pre-season and will be vying for the number one jersey with ex-Hemel glovesman Darren Bonfield.

Central defender Matt Corbould is suspended for the first three games of the season, starting with tomorrow's home fixture against Cirencester Town ko 3pm.

Another absentee will be left back Chris Herron, who missed most of last season with a leg injury.

Bateman said: "Chris is progressing well and it's good to see him back, but I don't expect him back on the pitch before Christmas."

"We are also taking a look at George Mapes brother of former Wycombe Wanderers player Charlie Mapes.

"George is a very promising young player."

Chesham's financial situation, involving an £11,000 VAT debt, has spread panic among supporters but Bateman is adamant it won't affect performances on the pitch.

He said: "I don't get involved and neither do the players. The directors are confident that we can get it sorted and are working hard to do that.

"But then, you show me a club that doesn't owe somebody money."