CHRISTCHURCH manager Adie Arnold insists there is no room for sentiment after completing a quadruple raid on Merley Cobham Sports.

Michael Barber, Will Gage and Elliott Goward have all signed up for Priory’s push for an immediate return to the Sydenhams Wessex League’s top flight shortly after James Rowe's transfer from Merley earlier this summer.

Arnold told the Daily Echo: “That’s football at any level. Once one comes, two or three tend to follow and to be fair to the lads, they are all very keen to step up.

“We are happy to give them their opportunity and I think they are good enough but time will tell. If four of five of my players wanted to go to Merley, nobody would bat an eyelid.”

Arnold has also snapped up Sholing’s Adam Stride and Sam Thompson, an attacking player who shone in Sunday football for Victoria Cross.

Dan Matthews has signed forms having moved to the area, while midfielder Elliott Head is trialling with Christchurch having spent the previous campaign at New Milton.

Meanwhile, Arnold has added to new faces to his backroom staff.

Head coach Steve Sharkey comes in after a spell with New Milton with coach Mike Glavin joining from Hamworthy Recreation. Arnold's assistant Danny Saxby and goalkeeper coach Dan Fawcett remain in situ.

Arnold added: "I am quite happy with the backroom staff now and think we have brought in some good players. It is just finding the right blend and hopefully, the team will gel sooner rather than later."