12thjuly05

Tuesday 12th July 2005

Patient Blade finally captures Arnold

Kentish Observer League side Thamesmead Town have made another summer signing, capturing highly-rated goalkeeper Chris Arnold from league rivals, Erith Town, writes Stephen McCartney.

"It's another good signing for the club," insists Mead manager Paul Blade.

"Chris has been one of the best goalkeepers in the league over the last couple of years," he told the club's website.

"He is young and ambitious, and he is the sort of player that the club is looking for."

Blade revealed he tried to sign the stopper this time last year.

He added: "We came in for Chris last year, but he wanted to stay loyal to Erith, which I respect.

"But now he thinks he needed a new challenge and I'm glad he chose Thamesmead over a couple of clubs."

Blade admits he will sign more players before their league campaign gets underway on 13th August.

"We are nearly there now in terms of building a strong squad for the forthcoming campaign," he said.

"I do expect to sign at least two more players within the next week or so.

"There are a couple of players that I need to see play first."

Blade will be casting his eye on trailists in a game against Snodland on Saturday (please check venue).