George is a member of the Cambridge United board

Cambridge United are better prepared for the Blue Square Bet Premier than they were 12 months ago, according to director of football Jez George.

United's pre-season was hampered last year after a botched managerial recruitment process, which eventually saw Martin Ling take the reins.

George told BBC Radio Cambridgeshire: "Money has been spent more wisely.

"I would say the strength in depth and the balance of the squad is better this year than it was last."

Ling initially accepted the job of Cambridge boss last summer before a fall-out with then chairman George Rolls led to him walking away from the role.

Weeks later Ling returned to the Abbey after Rolls quit the club but the episode gave the former Leyton Orient manager little time to build his squad.

got good young players coming through with good experienced pros who are going to form the nucleus of the team Cambridge United director of football Jez George

This pre-season has been a largely blank canvas for Ling, who only had two players from previous boss Gary Brabin's regime still on his books.

"This summer we've been able to start from scratch," said George.

"This year we've been able to spend from the start and plan how it's spent.

"Last year the situation was inherited because by the time Martin came in decisions had been made and contracts had already been offered."

The U's have added six names this summer to a squad George believes is capable of challenging for promotion.

"We've got good young players coming through, but you need to supplement that with good experienced pros who are going to form the nucleus of the team," he said.

"If you gel the two together, you've got a decent chance of success."

George also confirmed that the club are still chasing the signature of one more player, but said no deal was imminent.

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