THE new season might be just days away but for Harrow Borough manager David Howell it is business as usual.

Howell is happy to wheel and deal right up until Saturday and beyond as he strives to add guile and experience to his squad. And his determination to plug the gaps is emphasised by the latest influx of players he is casting his eye over at Earlsmead.

Former Hitchin Town and Maidenhead United central midfielder Tyrone Sealey played in Saturday's 3-2 defeat at Cheshunt while Rayners Lane goalkeeper Andre Baptiste was due to start in last night's (Wednesday's) friendly with Queens Park Rangers.

Howell is also checking out fullbacks Warren Goodhind and Danny Honeyball. South African Goodhind has enjoyed spells with Barnet and Cambridge United and turns 31 on Saturday, while former AFC

Wimbledon linchpin Honeyball has combined playing with the manager's role at Waltham Forest and Arlesey Town.

"I've got a lot of holes to fill in the squad and there is only one way to find out if these players that come in out of nowhere can sink or swim, and that is to put them in (the team)," said Howell. "The team has not really gelled yet and everything won't be put right by Saturday. It might take a few weeks and I would have liked the team to have gelled quicker."

And what does he make of the play-ers on trial?

"Tyrone was a bit quiet last Saturday while Andre did well for Rayners Lane against us in a recent friendly. Their manager thinks Andre is too good for that level of football.

"As for Warren it would be great if we could get him as he can definitely bring something to the mix. He has that experience we need and I know him from when I played for Barnet and he was a youngster coming through. He really wants to play football and enjoy himself."

Two players Howell has signed up are striker Jerome Hall and versatile left-back Simon Dahl.

Hall has seen time with Maidenhead and Northwood while 18-year-old Dahl was recommended to Howell by his celebrity mate and sometime scout, Radio Five Live's DJ Spoony.

"Jerome has a lot of ability but, like a lot of these players, just needs a bit of love and understanding and not beaten with a stick," commented Howell. "He is one of these players that can get fans on the edge of their seats."