Abbott has high hopes for Bradbrook - EXCLUSIVE

Thursday 29th May 2008

SITTINGBOURNE boss Gary Abbott believes he’s the man to turn new signing Tom Bradbrook into a better player, writes Stephen McCartney.

Goalscoring legend Abbott has signed striker Bradbrook, 20, from Ryman Premier League side Dartford.

Bradbrook was plucked out of local football by Darts boss Tony Burman last summer but due to the goalscoring form of Brendon Cass and Jay May appearances in the first-team were limited, but when called upon, he impressed.

“He was my main aim really because we missed out on that last year,” Abbott said EXCLUSIVELY to www.kentishfootball.co.uk tonight.

“He’s good, he’s quick and I’m going to work on him as well with his hold up play so hopefully once we get into work training, by the time the season starts or around Christmas time he’ll be better holding balls up and hopefully scoring a few goals.

“It’s a good move for us and also there’s a few players who might be going as well so I’ll have to wait until pre-season to actually see who I’ve got.”

Abbott could lose Bradley Spice, Ryan Andrews and Lee Spiller, who have been invited to pre-season training with Blue Square South outfit Welling United.

But despite losing full-back and skipper Joe Dowley to Ryman Premier League side Ramsgate yesterday, Abbott insists he’ll find a replacement.

“Joe’s loss is a bit of a blow really but he got offered a good deal,” explained Abbott.

“I know what it’s all about, I’ve been there myself (when) you get offered to play higher as well.

“All the best to him really. We’ll fill their places, no-ones irreplaceable, so that’s what I’ll do.”

Abbott also said that he’ll be using pre-season to tighten up his defensive four and revealed what he’s looking to add to the Bourne Park outfit.

“I’m still waiting for a centre half to get back to me but apart from that I am looking at a left-sided player as well,” he said.

“I’ve got a few players coming down for pre-season training, some good little players as well. They’re might be a couple going, been invited to go to Welling for pre-season training, whether they do or not, I don’t know.”

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