A NEW look Canvey Island kick off their Isthmian Premier Division campaign at Chichester on Saturday.

The Gulls have lost some key players since the end of last season.

And midfielder Jamie Salmon is expecting a testing few months.

“I don’t think there’s any denying it’s going to be a challenging season,” said Salmon.

“While we would love to push for the play-offs realistically a mid to top half of the table finish would be a successful outcome for us in a league where many teams have larger budgets and more resources than us.”

Canvey finished 14th in the standings last time around.

But Salmon has been encouraged by the form shown during pre-season.

“Considering how many important players left in the summer, pre-season has been really good,” said Salmon.

“It’s been the most competitive pre-season in terms of the squad and I feel like we are in a good place to start the season.”

Chichester were promoted by the Isthmian League South East Division play-offs last season.

And Salmon is expecting a tricky opening encounter.

“It’s going to be a really tough test,” said Salmon.

“Playing a team that have just got promoted is always hard as they have that promotion bounce.

“We are going to have to be at it to get three points come Saturday especially as it’s one of our longest away trips of the season.”

But Salmon is excited to get going.

“I can’t wait for the season to get started,” said Salmon.

“Pre-season friendlies have been good and performances have been good but you can’t beat a competitive league game to see where we really are.

“We’re looking forward to the support Canvey fans will give us too.

“Their support is invaluable as we aim to achieve our goals this season.”

Elsewhere this weekend, Billericay Town -who just missed out on the play-offs last season - start their Isthmian Premier campaign against Whitehawk at New Lodge while newly promoted Bowers & Pitsea head to Hendon for their first fixture.

In Isthmian North, Basildon United - who beat Hadley 2-1 in the FA Cup on Saturday - host Haringey in their opening league game of the season.

Concord Rangers also start off at home as they take on Bury Town.