BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent manager James Webster admits he is having his toughest summer yet in terms of player recruitment.

The long-serving R’s boss has been delighted to bring in two new faces – FC Clacton’s Kevin Coyle and former Stanway Rovers goalkeeper Nick Punter.

However, aside from that, he says it has been a taxing few weeks with finance and inflated player demands proving an issue – despite being armed with the biggest budget in the club’s history.

“This has been my hardest pre-season yet, in terms of recruitment,” he told the Gazette.

“The truth is that we just can’t compete with other clubs in terms of finances.

“I’ve met players and very soon into the conversation it’s become apparent we can’t get close to what they want.

“Even players who haven’t been playing regularly are getting a lot more elsewhere.

“It’s made it tough going so far but I’m not panicking.

“What I’ve found down the years is that at this time of year, the players tend to have all the power.

“They have a strong bargaining hand and can be quite demanding, in terms of what they want.

“Then when you get into pre-season, their attitude can change if they haven’t had the offers they were hoping for and expected.

“Faced with the prospect of starting the new season without a club, they’re suddenly in a different position and that’s when we might be able to do some business.

“One or two become available who weren’t previously on your radar and the squad just seems to evolve.

“That’s the way it’s been for us for the last few years and might explain why we don’t always make the best start, because the players haven’t had time to gel.

“But our recruitment was the best it’s ever been last season. Players came in at just the right time and gave us a real boost.”

Brightlingsea are preparing for their first-ever season in the newly-named Bostik League premier division and Webster is pleased to have snapped up Coyle and Punter.

The former was a stand-out player at Thurlow Nunn League neighbours FC Clacton.

He was a multiple award-winner at their club presentation evening and was named both manager and supporters' player-of-the-year, as well as finishing as top goalscorer.

He also won the Derek Savage 'champagne moment' award for his tremendous volleyed goal at Newmarket Town.

“I’ve always thought a lot of Kev,” said Webster.

“He’s a match-winner who can be having a quiet game but then pop up with a moment of magic.

“He’s a very talented player and I don’t think he’d mind me saying that he also seems to have grown up and matured a lot.

“He’s got the attitude to match his talent now and I think he sees this as his last chance to play step three football.

“He scooped lots of awards last season and had a really good year for Clacton.

“And the other thing that really appeals about him is the fact he can play in various positions – in defence, midfield and even up front.

“We’re going to have a pretty small squad compared to others so it’s important to have versatile players who can fill into different positions.”

Former Stanway man Punter will replace Sam Cowler, who is one of four players to have moved on since the end of last season, with the others being Jake Turner, Robbie Rees and Russell Malton.

“I’m delighted to have signed Nick,” added Webster.

“He’s a keeper I’ve admired for a long time and as well as being a great keeper, he’s someone with a very professional attitude.

“He trains and prepares properly and I’m sure he’ll prove a great acquisition.”