Molesey boss Steve Webb has swooped on AFC Wimbledon's reserve squad as he looks to build a new side from scratch.

The Ryman League Division One South club have slashed their budget, with strikers Phil Ruggles and James Rose moving to Carshalton Athletic and Kingstonian respectively.

Webb has countered the exodus by welcoming close to 50 players at pre-season training this season and last week claimed the signatures of ex-Dons Jon Boswell, Freddie Myers and Josh Lennie.

Former Kingstonian keeper Steve Windegaard has also turned up at Walton Road.

But Webb was upset by the players who turned their back on a club in crisis, including ex-keeper Chuck Martini.

"A number of players definitely said they would be back this season, but have ended up chasing the money and going to the Combined Counties League," he fumed.

"It is hugely disappointing. Some have moved on without giving us the chance to show them what we are about, even though they have said they love the club and the people.

"When Chuck went for the manager's job here, he said categorically he wouldn't be around if he wasn't given the job. Sure enough, he was soon off. To say he loves the club is a load of tosh, really."

Webb may have been shawn of resources, but he is confident in the ability of the players likely to form the core of his squad.

He believes the first 10 league matches could determine how the rest of the season pans out.

"I don't doubt the ability of the players we have attracted to compete at this level, but it depends on how they gel over the first few games," he added.

"If we can get a good start in the first 10 games there might be an opportunity to extend the budget a bit."

Molesey started their pre-season programme with a 3-1 win over Westfield on Saturday with goals from Payam Amiri, Lee Smithers and James Mepham (penalty).

They visit Cobham for another friendly this Saturday.