ANDY KING could start adding extra players to his squad within days if supporters embrace the Red Army Fund (RAF).

The idea is for fans and businesses to contribute to a 'pot' which exists for the sole purpose of providing the Town boss with funds for new faces.

More than £20,000 has already been received in pledges and that is enough to cover the wages of a Jimmy Davis-style figure for three months.

Once funds are lodged into a special account, King will be able to request all or part of the balance to bring in a player (or players) of his choosing at any time.

That could mean the Town boss being in a position to move just days after the opening match of the campaign against Sheffield Wednesday.

It is the brainchild of the Swindon Town Supporters Trust in conjunction with the Supporters Club and the backing of King and the County Ground board.

Fund spokesman Tony Norris said: "Supporters have always had the power to help a team's performance by singing their hearts out, but now there is another way to help bring the success we all want.

"The Red Army Fund gives both fans and local businesses the chance to feel part of their club and also the opportunity to have a direct impact on what happens on the pitch.

"Imagine the feeling if a player purchased or taken on loan through the Fund scores the goal that secures promotion.

"Those supporting the RAF, for as little as £5 a month, can genuinely say 'I helped bring that about'. It will generate a feeling of pride and it's is a case of every penny counts."

Norris feels it is a 'win, win' situation for all concerned.

He said: "The manager has already said he is worried about injuries as he doesn't have a huge squad. The Fund offers him a way of bringing in the players he might need, if his club budget is exhausted.

"How many he can bring in obviously depends on the amount in the account. What we cannot do is spend money that isn't there."

A delighted King said: "The Red Army Fund is a great opportunity for fans and local businesses to work with me and the club to improve the team and move the club forward."

n ANDY King yesterday confirmed that Bart Griemink will start the new season as his No 1 goalkeeper.

The big Dutchman has been threatened by the arrival of England under 21 international Rhys Evans, but King said: "The two goalkeepers have been equal in training, but I owe Bart my gratitude for his previous performances for the club."

FULL FUND DETAILS IN TODAY'S KICK-OFF SPECIAL