Sutton United returned to winning ways with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Thurrock at Gander Green Lane on Saturday, and assistant manager Paul Harford hopes it is a sign of things to come.

Sutton's third league success of the season, which lifted them four places to 16th, was timely, given that their next three matches are against sides in the top seven.

Harford said: "We haven't started well in the league and we needed this win for our confidence.

"We just haven't had any luck in recent weeks."

Brentford loanee Charlie Ide scored a quickfire brace to put United on their way, but Thurrock pulled one back before half-time, forcing the home side into some nervy moments before they could secure their first win in almost a month.

The victory has propelled Sutton out of the relegation zone and that is a trend the former Fulham academy coach would like to see continue.

"Next up, we have got Newport County away, which is always a tough game," he said.

"They have a couple of very experienced players up front in Nathan Blake and Julian Alsop, so they will make it difficult - but we have to be positive."

Sutton were further boosted this week by news that in-form Ide had signed an extension to his loan agreement, meaning he will be at the club for at least another month.

Harford said: "The boy has been in great form and we are pleased to have him here."

He was not so confident about the possibility of extending Ross Gaynor's loan deal from Milwall, describing it as an "ongoing discussion".

In other news, the club have released striker Carl Gibbs, whose court case is ongoing, while defender Steve Broad has left the club to join Kingstonian in search of first team football.

Sutton are not playing this weekend after getting knocked out of the FA Cup by Bishop's Stortford.

Sutton: Naughton, Palmer, Gonsalves, Scarborough, Fear (Lampton H-T), Akuamoah, Gray, Honey, Ide, Gaynor (Graham 73), Johnson(Blackwell 66). Subs not used: Clayton, Maan.