Otterbourne have raided Cadnam United for two new signings and hope to pull off two “massive coups” as they strengthen ahead of the Puma Engineering Hampshire Premier League campaign.

Cadnam, otherwise known as the Magpies, have dropped back down into the Southampton Saturday Leagues despite being a force to be reckoned with in Hampshire Division One last season, in which they reached the semi-finals of two cup competitions.

And after their demise, thought, Otters have wasted little time in swooping for two of their top names.

Manager Richard Luffman has secured the services of striker Ash Hewer and combative defender Sam Payne, to add to a squad that promises much for next season.

Both of them have joined Dave Goble, who scored nine goals for a struggling Hedge End side last term, as the new faces at Oakwood Park.

But it doesn’t end there, with two big signings set to sign in the near future.

Luffman has also admitted that they have had to compete with county champions Hamble Club for new players, which, in his eyes, is a sign of things to come.

“We have been able to secure three new signing's for the forthcoming season with a further two close,” said Luffman.

“The two other signings we are hopeful of making would be massive coups for the club.

“It seems every player we go for Hamble are in for them as well.

“It seems that we are already competing and the season hasn't even started.”

Meanwhile, youngster Tommy Wright, who scored 25 goals for Otters last term, has joined Sutton United.

Wright scored against Winchester in a recent friendly for Sutton and played against Bristol Rovers.

Otters are itching to get the season underway.

"We start at home to Paulsgrove then have a very tough game against Infinity and then Hamble after six games," explained Luffman.

"Minus the latter two we've been given a nice start and must start quickly if we are to mount any title push.  

"We've drawn Locks Heath in the league cup, also this season we enter the Russell Cotes based on our top thee finish, which is something the club is looking forward to, as we will be pitched against a lot of Wessex sides."