TRANMERE Rovers' manager has praised the 'never-say-die' attitude that has taken his squad to third on the National League table.

During a press conference ahead of this Saturday’s home game against Eastleigh, Gary Brabin said it was a mixture of confidence and belief that has so far netted seven wins, two defeats and six draws this season.

They are currently third on the table with 27 points.

Brabin said this afternoon: "I'm pleased with the start we've had – it's been a good mix of performances and results.

"We've looked really solid and if we can combine goals with clean sheets for a longer period of time, then we'll get more and consistent and that’s where the improvements will come.

"We're all relatively new together and there’s been a massive transition in the club, real change.

"We've seen a massive improvement in large parts of our performance and are delighted where we are at the minute.

"We believe that we can kick on and get better during the rest of the season.

"I remember, when I came to the club, that it had been a really bad few years, and I think people are looking for a real positive response. That’s what we’ve given.

"When I came into the job I never promised anything more than the lads rolling their sleeves up and giving 100 per cent, getting people scoring goals, getting people cheering for goals and being competitive in the league which, up to now, I think we have been.

"Hopefully, we can achieve what everybody wants and that is promotion at the end of the season.

"If we concentrate on what we’re good at and focus on our strengths, we’ll be more than enough for anyone."

Assessing this weekend’s opponents, he continued: "They are going to be a strong side, you’ve only got to look at the players they’ve attracted.

“They've brought some really big names to the club and are one of the favourites this season. They’ve had some good results.

"They've not had a midweek game this week, so I’m sure they will be coming here full of confidence.

“We're expecting a tough game."

There will also be a minute's applause for PC David Phillips before kick-off on Saturday and a ground collection.

Paying tribute, Brabin said: "It's someone that was local to the club, so it has extra meaning when it’s something like that.

"Everytime you look at the news these days there is travesty and this is no different. I'm sure everybody will be paying their respects on Saturday."

His thoughts were echoed by club chairman Mark Palios, who said in a statement on the club's website: "We send our deepest sympathies to his family and to the wider Police community.

"David has, in the past, been a member of our Safety arrangements at Prenton Park, as have many local police officers.

"We will also be holding a collection for the PC David Phillips Memorial Trust Fund. We hope you will join us in paying our respects to one of our own."

Meet the opponents: Eastleigh

Nickname: The Spitfires

Colours: Blue shirts, white shorts, blue socks

Ground: Silverlake Stadium

Distance from Prenton Park: 239 miles

Position last season: Fourth

Formerly known as Swaythling Athletic, before becoming Eastleigh in 1980, the club won promotion to the Conference Premier for the first time in 2014 after they were crown Conference South Champions.