It always takes time to gel after a summer of change both on and off the pitch

As with most football fans, we begin every new season in optimistic mode; though spare a thought for our neighbours at Morecambe.

- Supporters' Liaison Officer's column with Steve Rowland

During the close season, our owner has put a lot of money into strengthening the squad and improving the infrastructure of the stadium and the training ground.

You will have read for yourselves about the quality of players that have signed for the Seasiders.

We've even been getting some stick from others in the division for being 'a rich club', tipped for promotion before a ball was kicked.

What, then, to make of three defeats in our opening three competitive games?

It's not great, of course, but I'm going to say it takes time for a squad to gel and get up to speed, especially as this starting XI is so different from the one that was playing in May.