Margate snap up former Herne Bay midfielder Connor Wilkins: I’ve played in the Bostik League but not in this division before, so it is a step up for me, but I’m prepared for that and I’ll be ready

MARGATE have unveiled the signing of former Herne Bay midfielder Connor Wilkins.

Wilkins reunites with manager Jay Saunders who coached the 20-year-old midfielder when he was at Maidstone United.

As a consequence, the decision to switch to Bostik Premier Division side Margate was a relatively straightforward one.

Wilkins told www.margate-fc.co.uk:“I’ve known Jay for years, back when I was 16/17 and training with Maidstone. I was a young boy then and Jay loaned me out to Sittingbourne to get experience and then I signed for Herne Bay. When Jay was interested in me, it was a no-brainer to sign for the club.

The appeal of working with Saunders again combines with the perfect opportunity for the ambitious, young footballer to push forward in his career.

“I’ve played in the Bostik League but not in this division before, so it is a step up for me, but I’m prepared for that and I’ll be ready.

“I know of a few of the players Jay has signed and playing with better players will bring out the best in myself, in a better league.”

Wilkins is already relishing the opportunity to be part of the buzz at Hartsdown Park and added.

“I know all about Margate, I’ve been to watch a few of their games as a young boy and I know it is a big club.

“Jay has told me all about the fans and how much of a family club it is. That is something I am looking forward to getting involved in and being a part of.”

For a young player, Wilkins has already garnered some valuable experience with local Kent sides.

Now, he hopes to seize the opportunity to showcase his attributes in the middle of the park, in the squad Saunders is assembling.

“It’s been a long, old season in a relegation battle with Herne Bay, so I’ll rest my feet up for two or three weeks and then as soon as pre-season starts, I’ll go from there,” said Wilkins.

“I’m a team player with a lot of energy in amongst the midfield. I like to see myself as a player who is good on the ball and plays with a lot of passion and I can’t wait to show that at Margate.”

Herne Bay, who finished last season in the bottom six in the Bostik South East Division, appointed former Canterbury City boss Ben Smith as their new manager yesterday following a change in the boardroom.

Visit Margate’s website: www.margate-fc.co.uk