Boss Rob Smith has called for realism as AFC Telford United bid to out-perform the Blue Square North’s big spenders this season.

Smith has been forced to cut his budget over the summer while some of his main rivals have been splashing the cash on expensive and experienced signings.

Fleetwood Town have led the way, laying out £17,000 on defender Steve McNulty as well as attracting a number of other leading lights in the non-League game who are commanding big wages.

Newly-promoted Corby have attracted ex-Premier League striker Jason Lee, while Alfreton – Smith’s tip for the title – have also strengthened.

“Fleetwood have also signed a pro full-back (ex-Aston Villa man Alan Wright) that Cheltenham couldn’t afford to keep in League Two,” said the Telford chief, ahead of Saturday’s opener against Blyth Spartans.

“Anyone expecting us to compete with that, financially, is living in cloud cuckoo-land. Alfreton and Fleetwood stick out a mile, then you’ve got teams like Gainsborough, Corby and Eastwood who’ve all got more money than us.

“These clubs are all backed by a money man. I spoke to a lot of the players that Corby have signed and a lot of the players that Alfreton have signed.

“I know what sort of money they’re on and it’s absolutely ridiculous – we’re not even on the same planet.

“As long as our fans are realistic about that then we’ll be alright.”

Despite his concerns at his rivals’ spending power, Smith insists he is happy with the side he has been able to put together.

He backs them to be among the front-runners, as long as his 18-man squad does not become too depleted.

“It’s going to be an unbelievably difficult year, but we knew that in the summer,” he said. “I do think we’ve got a very strong squad and I do think we can match anyone in the league. We just need a lot of luck with injuries and suspensions.”

By CHRIS HUDSON