ALEX Salmon is pleased to see the likes of Joe Howard making the grade after swapping Burnham Ramblers for life in the Isthmian North with Basildon United.

Salmon left the top job at Eastern Counties League Division One South side Burnham to take charge of the Bees earlier this month.

Former Ramblers star man Howard is among those to have made the move to the Cousins Car Wash Stadium since and Salmon is happy to be working with some familiar faces.

“I’d already had discussions with people like Joe when I was at Burnham about them needing to make the jump,” said Salmon.

“I felt they were ready to make the step up and then I got the Basildon job, so the timing was perfect.

“Joe is good enough for this level and it’s up to him to show that.”

Salmon has made a host of signings since moving into the hotseat.

And Salmon, who also featured for the Bees during his playing career, insists there will not be any more new arrivals.

“I have been really pleased with all of the boys and how they have settled in,” added Salmon.

“We know what they are capable of and the biggest worry was how they would all get on as a group.

“But it’s been a case of so far, so good.

“We are happy with the squad and it’s settling down now.

“Reece Price-Placid is back after picking up a knock and he is like a new signing.”

Salmon will enjoy his first home clash in charge when AFC Sudbury make the journey to the Cousins Car Wash Stadium for an Isthmian North clash tomorrow.

Sudbury, who are currently 14th in the standings, are three points better off than fourth-from-bottom Basildon.

And Salmon wants to drag Sudbury into the relegation dogfight.

“This will be my first home match in charge and I’m looking forward to it,” admitted Salmon.

“Sudbury will bring a different challenge.

“The more points we can take off the teams around us, the better.”