Sutton boss John Rains has warned Sutton fans not to expect too much too soon from his young team.

At times last season, United fielded half a dozen players aged 21 or under, and Rains says his team is still on a steep learning curve.

"Supporters are going to have to be patient," he told the Comet.

"Money doesn't grow on trees. Sutton have had some very good years, but we have been going through a lean spell recently.

Rains is entering his seventh year in charge at Gander Green Lane a spell which has seen him win a Ryman League championship and the Surrey Senior Cup.

"It hasn't been easy," said Rains. "Even when we won the championship we did it on a modest budget.

"It was achieved with experienced players, who were also big characters and kept the spirits up in the dressing room.

"These are learning years and it must be frustrating for the supporters, but the club must not risk itself financially by trying to get instant success."

July 9, 2002 13:00