Jones’ return is a Ray of sunshine for Ashford

Ashford Town boss Steve Lovell today pulled off two major transfer coups by clinching the signatures of inspirational centre half Sean Ray and fans favorite Paul Jones, who both go in the squad for the midweek clash with Worthing, writes Jack Wilson.

Highly-rated, Ray was released only last week from his home-town club Hastings United, but Lovell was quickly on hand to thrash out a deal to bring the 26-year-old to the Homelands.

On the centre back’s qualities Lovell, who takes charge of his first home game tomorrow night, told www.ashfordtownfc.co.uk  : “Sean’s a leader. I had him at Hastings before and he’s a born leader and he commands the back.

“He’s a great athlete, he will organise and he’ll get you goals from set-plays. He’s a great acquisition and I’m looking forward to working with him again.”

The boss was also pleased to announce the signing of Paul Jones, who returns to the club after leaving for Folkestone Invicta in the summer of 2005.

“Paul is a good centre forward who holds the ball up well,” said the Welshman. “He brings people in to play and he’s got qualities that we haven’t got as a side.

“He needs a bit of match fitness as do a few of our other boys and he will take a few weeks to get it all sorted but it’s a step in the right direction “

Lovell has also moved to quash speculation around the future of Rob Gillman – another returnee to the club, albeit in pre-season.

Rumour has been rife about the player wanting to depart from the Homelands but it appears that for the future the former Bishop’s Stortford man is going nowhere.

“If Rob Gillman wants to leave the club he hasn’t said anything to me,” said Lovell.

“I’ve got no problem with Rob whatsoever. He’s a good player and I want him to stay, and he’s shown me no inclination otherwise.

“Until he tells me so I’ll continue to pick him as he’s a good player, a good lad, and a good footballer.

“As long as he wants to stay and work with Ashford then he will do. He’s under contract so he’ll stay.”

Article courtesy of www.ashfordtownfc.co.uk

www.kentishfootball.co.uk are covering this game - Steve Lovell's first home game in charge of Ashford Town.

Ashford Town v Worthing
Ryman League Division One South
Tuesday 13^th November 2007
Kick Off 7:45pm
At The Homelands, Ashford Road, Kingsnorth, Ashford, Kent TN26 1NJ