Kentish Express Ashford & District
United delighted to finally sign Zanone
Striker Stuart Zanone wasted little time in proving how important he could be to Ashford United’s promotion challenge this season.
Zanone, who signed for United last week, scored the second goal in Saturday’s 2-0 win at Tunbridge Wells to underline why manager Paul Chambers and assistant Lloyd Blackman have been trying to bring the 29-year-old back to Homelands.
Blackman said: “Stuart had a brief spell here a few seasons ago and is a player that Paul and I have kept an eye on. His scoring record speaks for itself.
“We tried to sign him several weeks ago from Greenwich Borough but he went to Thamesmead instead.
“It didn’t work out for Stuart there and when he became available again, we moved quickly to get him. He’s a fantastic addition to the squad.”
When Andy Irvine and James Everitt are both fit again, it means Chambers, with Kieran Byrne and Michael Smissen also in the striking frame as well, could have a selection dilemma up front.
Although Blackman insisted: “What with injuries, suspensions and work commitments, it’s rare at this level to be able to name the same side two matches running.
“The more players you have available, the better.”
That explains why Chambers has also signed three young midfielders – 18-year-old Joe Fisher, who is a product of Dover Athletic’s Academy; 17-year-old Harry Priddle on dual registration forms from Leatherhead and 17-year-old Callum Wright from Folkestone Invicta, again on dual registration.
Blackman added: “The young lads we have brought in will all get their chance at some point because of the reasons I have mentioned.
“It will be up to them to grab it with both hands and show they are worth a place in the starting line-up.”
Ashford were in Southern Counties East League action at Woodstock Sports last (Wednesday) night and Chambers was hoping to complete the signing of Faversham defender Jordan Miller on dual registration in time for him to make his return to United’s colours.
On Saturday, Ashford are at home to Holmesdale and then on Tuesday they travel to early strugglers Deal Town.
Blackman warned: “You can’t take anything for granted in this league, especially when the games are coming thick and fast.
“We’ve got to make sure we back up the Tunbridge Wells performance.”