A closer look at Torquay United ahead of Saturday's match with Southend United

What have you made of the start of the season and why do you feel things have not gone too well so far?

"It’s been very disappointing in terms of results so far, but all of the games could easily have gone either way.

"Things have not gone well largely due to the new team not scoring enough goals, together with a bit of bad luck, untimely injuries, and the usual poor refereeing."

What had been the hopes for this season and what do you still feel can be achieved?

"The aim this season is promotion to the EFL, which is more realistic through the play-offs due to the competition from clubs with far bigger budgets.

"Last season we made a similarly poor start and we were in great form from November onwards, so I don’t see any reason why we cannot do it again once the new squad has gelled, but hopefully starting earlier."

How much has the team changed since last season and what had been the major comings and goings in the summer?

"There is only one first team regular left from last season (Dean Moxey), and five that were in and out of the team (Mark Halstead, Ali Omar, Dan Martin, Tom Lapslie, Asa Hall).

"So the team is completely transformed compared to the last time we played Southend in May.

"We lost first choice players Shaun McDonald, Joe Lewis, Connor Lemonheigh-Evans, and Armani Little to EFL One and Two clubs, plus Ben Wynter to Barnet, and Danny Wright to

"Havant. Almost all of the fringe players were either released or secured new clubs.

"We signed two new strikers in Corie Andrews and Aaron Jarvis, a new goalkeeper in Rhys Lovett, plus a number of promising youngsters, including some on loan."

Who would you say is the dangerman?

"Corie Andrews. He scored nine goals in 20 games for Aldershot last season, but has yet to open his account for Torquay."

What’s the team news for Saturday?

"Several players have been out through injury: Mark Halstead, Tom Lapslie, and Aaron Jarvis are probably still unavailable (at least to start).

"However, Gary Johnson rarely gives anything away about the match day squad until the team sheet comes out at 2:15 on a Saturday, but we’re hopeful that new striker Aaron Jarvis might finally make his debut at some point.

"Don’t be surprised if any new signings are announced just prior to kickoff as well."

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