Newly-appointed Ashford United boss Kevin Watson starts to shape his squad

ASHFORD UNITED’S newly-appointed manager Kevin Watson has bolstered his defence by bringing in two new recruits.

The former Cray Valley and Herne Bay manager has replaced Tommy Warrilow, who guided the Homelands Stadium outfit to a ninth-placed finish in the Isthmian League South East Division last season.

Watson has today unveiled the signings of defenders Harvey Brand and Tolulope Jonah, who played for Beckenham Town and VCD Athletic respectively.

“Harvey was an integral part of Beckenham Town’s success last season, making the most league appearances out of their squad,” said Watson.

“We’ve monitored Harvey for a number of seasons and are delighted to now be working with him.

“He is versatile and can perform in a number of positions, which is a great attribute to have.”

Right-back Brand scored six goals in 46 appearances for Jason Huntley’s side last season.

Centre-half Jonah, meanwhile, has got a long throw on him and arrives from relegated side VCD Athletic.

“We watched Tolu on three separate occasions last season and were impressed each time.  Whilst experienced, Tolu is a player that we feel we can improve further and add real impact this season,” added Watson on the club’s social media channels.

Watson, meanwhile, has confirmed that he has retained eight players from Warrilow’s squad last season, that fell short of reaching the play-offs by 10 points.

Former Crystal Palace and Ramsgate goalkeeper, Jacob Russell, is staying at Homelands Stadium next season.

“We were fully aware of Jacob’s reputation. He has experienced a strong grounding through his youth development in the game and has acquired good experience in non-league to date,” said Watson.

“Upon meeting with Jacob, we were impressed by his desire for personal improvement and look forward to helping him achieve this.”

Connor Towens will be Russell’s understudy.

Watson said: “Connor has progressed through the under 18s and will work alongside Jacob, providing support and challenge in equal measure.  We look forward to continuing his development this coming season.”

Watson has also retained right-back Bradley Simms and former Folkestone Invicta and Maidstone United striker Johan Ter Horst.

“Bradley is a player that we have admired for some time.  The combination of his ability, winning mentality and infectious character will be thoroughly important in us achieving our desired goals this season.

“From a distance, we watched Johan’s career develop.  We understand the frustration he has felt when hindered through injury, but believe that he can get back to his best.”

Watson has kept former Sittingbourne centre-half Ben Gorham.

"Ben has a wealth of experience at Step Four. Whilst his physical presence is clear, his technical ability will enable us to play in the manner we wish to implement," said Watson, who will be assisted by Adam Flanagan.

Charlie Dickens is also staying put.

Watson said: "Charlie was an ever-present last season. Ashford United is his local club and where he wants to be playing his football. Again, he is a player we feel we can develop further."

Central midfielder Rhyle Ovenden and Tariq Ossai have also been retained, despite recent and current injury problems.

Watson said: “We are exciting to be working with Rhyle.  Following a period of absence from the game through injury, Rhyle featured regularly at the end of the season.

“He is keen for the next season to be a big one for him personally and we will provide this opportunity.

“Tariq is an undisputed talent.  His recovery from injury may prevent him from featuring early in the season but we are determined to support Tariq through his rehabilitation.” 

Meanwhile, former Ashford United goalkeeper, Tyler McCarthy, has departed league rivals Sevenoaks Town, having kept 13 clean sheets in 48 appearances for Harry Hudson's side last season.

Visit Ashford United’s website: www.ashfordunitedfc.com