Hendon boss Gary McCann believes a positive run of results over the Christmas period will put the Greens “in the play-off mix”.

Hendon take on Wingate & Finchley on Boxing Day and then host Leiston on Saturday. A clash against Enfield Town follows on New Year’s Day and McCann admits his side face three tough games.

He said: “Leiston are in great form at the moment and scoring more goals than us, so we know it won’t be easy. Enfield Town are fighting against relegation and they have just appointed a new manager.

“But we are going into the Christmas period with a full squad to choose from (apart from our long-term absentees). I have also signed Ryan Wharton on a dual-registration deal with St Albans City and he will act as cover if players become unavailable.

“It is nice to be going back home after four away matches and Earlsmead is certainly starting to feel like home, even if we have lost our last two matches there.

"I set the boys a target of seven points from the matches against Grays Athletic, Dulwich Hamlet and Cray Wanderers, so I can’t be too upset with six.

“If we can put a good run together, there is no reason why we can’t put ourselves in the playoff mix. And the three Christmas games are a perfect way of starting the run.”