Embery: Bourne’s best still to come

Faversham fans will see a different side to long-serving defender Matt Bourne this season.

Bourne is the club’s record appearance holder, having played more than 450 times for the Lilywhites.

But only now, according to new joint-boss John Embery, will supporters see just how good he is.

“People don’t realise how good a footballer he is,” said Embery. “He’s seen as this big lump who heads it and kicks it but there’s more to him than that. “Technically, he’s very good, he’s good with the ball on the deck, he’s just never been asked to play that way before. “He’s surprised me how well he’s done in training and how efficient he is on the ball. “Everyone knows he’s a good defender but he’s a lot better player than people give him credit for.

“We’re changing the way we play, we’re going to get the ball down and pass it and he’s got to be part of that.” Bourne’s decision to stay at Salters Lane is a boost for Faversham’s new management duo of Embery and Jermaine Darlington.

The pair have also been busy recruiting new players, including big goalkeeper Simon Overland, who first played for Faversham under Ray Turner. Attacking midfielder Nathan Wood has joined from Woking and there are high hopes for former England Schoolboys youngster James O’halloran, who plays wing-back. “We’re really pleased with some of the signings we’ve made,” said Embery, whose side lost 3-1 to Margate in a pre-season friendly on Tuesday night. “James O’halloran is someone I coached for a few years as a kid, between 12 and 16.

“He played for England Schoolboys and got a move to AFC Wimbledon and has played in America.

“He’s a very good player and his attitude is spot on. I expect him to have a big season. “Nathan Wood’s last club was Woking, he scores goals, is great technically and is another one with a great attitude, so he’ll be a big player.

“We’ve got Connor Wilkins, Brad Schafer, and it was a big one to get Simon Overland back. He’s got that size and presence.” Faversham are in friendly action at Uxbridge on Saturday (midday) and visit Phoenix on Tuesday (7.45pm)

The Lilywhites host Colliers Wood in the FA Cup extra preliminary round on August 6, with the winners at home to Little Common or Chatham on August 20.

Town have drawn Chichester away in the FA Trophy first qualifying round on September 10. If successful, they’ll travel to FC Romania or Grays Athletic on September 24.