Needham Market manager Mark Morsley thinks his side are just around the corner from clicking.

Morsley’s men were widely expected by many to comfortably challenge at the very top of the Ryman North this season but as the former Leiston boss has found out, his side haven’t had it all their own way so far.

With today’s home match against Heybridge Swifts already being postponed due to the bad weather, the Marketmen currently sit in seventh place.

But after a slightly inconsistent opening few months, Needham look to have found their feet of late after losing just once in their last nine league games.

“I feel we’ve grown a lot stronger as the season has gone on,” said Morsley.

“There was a lot of change in the summer and it’s all very well having high-profile and quality footballers but as everyone knows – they’ve got to gel as a team.

“I think we’re almost there now and very close to being right.

“Gelling as a team and getting the familiarity takes time but we’re in a good place right now.”

One player who seems to have made a big impact since signing is ex-Ipswich Town striker Richard Logan. The former Football League star, who celebrates his 32nd birthday today, has adapted so well to an unfamiliar central midfield role that Morsley has been singing his praises.

“Richard’s a good footballer,” confirmed Morsley.

“When he signed, his fitness levels weren’t as high as I’d have hoped but he’s getting there with games and he has played really well so far.

“I know he played and scored a few goals upfront for Mildenhall at Thurlow Nunn level but it’s a step up here.

“We’ve sort of thrown him in at the deep end in a number four role if you like after being a little short on numbers in the win against Waltham but he plays it simply and looks like he’s enjoying it.”

Partnered by former professionals in Kem Izzet and Ian Westlake, it is fair to say that Needham have a slightly better than average midfield trio.

Morsley continued: “He’s been playing in the middle with Kem and Westy so I don’t suppose that’s a bad midfield three is it?”

Morsley has also just secured the services of Leiston midfielder Luke Hammond on loan for the rest of the season as the he looks to sharpen up his squad.

“I’ve known Lukey for years and he’s played something like 200 games for me,” said Morsley.

“He’s a great lad and a good footballer as well so makes us even stronger.

“Ryan Melaugh has also done well since he’s come in on loan from Colchester and adds to our attacking base which I’ve been very impressed with of late.”

Although his side won’t play today, Morsley knows his maturing squad face some crucial fixtures ahead in January.

“January is a big month for us,” he said. “We have a lot of games and a lot of games against teams who are also in the mix with us – particularly Soham and Dereham – and it is important we pick points up against them.”