THE Nationwide Conference season kicks off in East London this Saturday, with Leigh RMI in much better shape than they were a week ago.

Steve Waywell has snapped up the signatures of ex-Oldham midfielder Phil Salt and former Wigan Athletic defender Neil Fitzhenry, and is set to add further to the squad by recruiting striker Tony Ellis and Ged Courtney ahead of the trip to Dagenham.

However, the build-up has not been perfect for the club as their only goalkeeper, Stuart Coburn, is still suffering from an ankle injury and midfield general Ged Kielty serves a one-match suspension.

RMI also look to have lost out on ex-Everton and Manchester City midfield star Ian Bishop who seems likely to accept to big money offer from Barry Town to play in the League of Wales.

Leigh did the double over the Londoners last season but start this term as favourites for the drop.