It’s been a busy few weeks at Thatcham Town with seven new players agreeing to join The Kingfishers for next seasons Southern League campaign.
Manager Danny Robinson has been working hard to bring in new additions in time for pre season training which starts on 2nd July.
There will be a familiar face in goal as Paul Strudley will be the first choice ‘keeper. The popular figure has returned to Waterside Park after featuring last season whilst on a dual registration with Hartley Witney.
The experienced former Hungerford Town man is a good shot stopper as well as a fantastic communicator in organising and marshalling the back line.
The defence has been bolstered with the arrival of Matty Day, a dominant and commanding central defender who played a big part in Bracknell Town’s impressive 2018/19 season. Matt spent many years playing for Hungerford Town and captaining them during a successful period for the club. Along with Paul Strudley, Matt brings wealth of experience.
Another former Hungerford player to join is pacy winger Alex Fragata. Having had a spell with Tadley Calleva last season the skill full wide man will be looking forward to representing his local club.
The man to fill the void of club legend and goal machine Shane Cooper-Clark is Brazilian Felipe Barcelos. The clinical frontman joins from Didcot Town following spells at Moneyfields and Stratford Town.
Barcelos scored 27 goals for Didcot Town during the 2017/18 season earning him both ‘Managers and Players Player of The Season’. Felipe will be looking to build a formidable partnership with current striker Kyle Tooze. A partnership that could cause plenty of problems for any defence.
Sam Balder has also joined from Didcot Town. The hard working and committed right back played every game for The Robins last season, captaining the side on a number of occasions. Balder is also comfortable playing in a midfield role.
Ex Bristol City youngster Joe Selman will provide an extra option out wide for Thatcham Town. Selman joins from Swindon Supermarine where he was awarded ‘Players and Supporters Player of The Season’ for the 2017/18 season. With an eye for goal Selman can also play in the number ten role.
As well as experience Thatcham Town have added a young and promising midfielder in George Farrelly to the ranks. The former AFC Bournemouth youngster arrives from Alresford Town and also played for Andover Town. Farrelly has a good range of passing and is a threat from dead ball situations in and around the oppositions area.
With the majority of the current squad already committed plus the seven new additions, players, staff and fans will be looking to build on last seasons mid table finish. Should The Kingfishers get a decent start with a settled squad then a play-off spot at least should be the target.
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