Kent champs on course for comeback

Kent League champions Erith & Belvedere believe they are on course to make a successful debut in the Ryman League following the arrival of a trio of new signings.

The Ryman North's Deres announced on Tuesday that they'd brought in defender Aidan Sherlock from Faversham, full-back James Golding from Cray Valley and Richard Morgan from Whyteleafe.

According to the club's joint managers, Chris Cosgrove and Martin Ford, all three will be valuable additions to their Park View Road squad.

Ford says more new faces may be on the way as the club prepares to return to Step 4 for the first time since leaving the Southern League in 2005.

He said: "We are hoping to announce some more signings over the next few days. Competition for places are high and that’s exactly what we want, we want to keep players shape and on their toes during pre-season. Our coaching staff have done a fantastic job so far and the lads look in great shape.

"Aidan is a big signing for us. He has Ryman League experience, played a big part in a successful side last year and we are delighted to welcome him to Erith & Belvedere. James is a very exciting prospect and has a big future ahead of him. Richard was recommended to us by our coaching staff and has really impressed us during pre-season so far. He is another player that we feel will come through for us."

Ford is now looking forward to getting their season underway and added: "The lads have worked very hard during out four training sessions so far. Chris and I are very happy with how things are developing. We have a good mixture of youth and experience which I feel will be vital next season."