GRAHAM Turner does not expect to see the Nationwide Conference take shape for another month.

Despite an inconsistent first month to the season, winning three and losing two, Hereford United are already among the league front-runners in fourth position.

Other clubs tipped at the start of the campaign to make a realistic dart for promotion -- Exeter, Stevenage and dark horses Grays -- were also in the top five during the week, along with outsiders Altrincham.

United's director of football Turner believes it will take more time for the league table to settle down.

"It will be eight to 10 games before we start to see any real pattern emerging in the league," said Turner.

"But there are early signs that the teams that I expect to be up there are doing well. It is important we continue to stay up there."

Turner rang the changes for last Monday's Conference triumph at Tamworth, with five different faces on view, including debuts for goalkeeper Wayne Brown, defender Darren Blewitt and forward Graham Evans.

Injuries to defender Tamika Mkandawire and striker Guy Ipoua forced the manager to alter his line-up.

Turner gave special praise to United's string of new players on their performances at the Lamb.

He said: "I was able as a manager to consider a number of changes. We made five in the end.

"The new players responded very well. Wayne Brown made his debut and kept a clean sheet. He did not have a great deal to do but looked competent.

"Darren Blewitt came in and looked very steady. Graham Evans also came on towards the end as the third debut-making player and although he did not have much impact, I believe he is capable of scoring goals.

"It was a nice situation to be in as manager that we could make those changes."

Hereford were tackling Altrincham at Edgar Street today in a noon kick-off.