Ben Smith brings Tom Carlton back to Herne Bay: Hats off once again to the chairman for working closely with me on this to get it done

HERNE BAY manager Ben Smith has today brought back highly-rated midfielder Tom Carlton from their Isthmian League South East Division rivals Hythe Town.

Carlton’s agent Simon Kidby has confirmed that the club have paid an undisclosed transfer fee to bring the player back to Winch’s Field from Reachfields Stadium.

“Obviously we are very happy Tom’s agreed to re-join,” Smith told the clubs website.

“I’ve watched him a lot over the years and have always said I’d love to have him on my side. He brings a great attitude and has untold ability.

“Hats off once again to the chairman for working closely with me on this to get it done.  Another show of the support which me, my management and the players now need to repay with results on the pitch.

“We are all looking forward to Saturday, ready to put a shift in for the fans on home turf.”

Herne Bay are in seventh-place in the table with 16 points from 11 games and are two points below the side immediately above them in the table, Ashford United, who arrive at Winch’s Field tomorrow (15:00).

Smith’s men are only two points adrift of fifth-placed Phoenix Sports, who leapfrogged over Tommy Warrilow’s side after beating Faversham Town 2-1 on Tuesday night in James Collins’ first game in charge of The Lilywhites.

Hythe Town, meanwhile, are underperforming this season as they sit in the bottom six with 11 points from their 12 league outings.

Visit Herne Bay’s website: www.hernebayfootballclub.co.uk