New Croydon Athletic caretaker managers Dave Garland and Bob Langford had no problem returning to help out the stricken Rams.

The pair, sacked just under two years ago, offered to work for free at the KT Stadium after the club were cleared to continue playing fixtures.

"I have known the guys here for years and we just told them that if they wanted a hand we were willing to help," he said.

"You cannot put into words what has happened here in the last month, it will probably make a best seller in a few years."

With no money to pay players and only Jeremy Williams remaining from Tim O'Shea's last game in charge, Garland and Langford hastily put a young squad together for Friday night's trip to Aveley, which they lost 3-0 despite holding out for 81 minutes.

"They were unbelievable and did really well when you consider they only met on Thursday and played together for the first time on Friday," said Garland.

"The reaction we have had from other teams, managers and players willing to help us has been fantastic - we had 45 kids turn up for trials on Monday night.

"We can fulfil the fixtures no problem but what sort of side we get out each week is another matter and we are under no illusions for the season.

"If we can stay in this league it's great but the possibility of that is very slim because of the players we have got."

Next three matches: Oct 2 Hendon (a), 6 Wealdstone (h), 9 Tonbridge Angels (a).