Stuart Zanone is enjoying life back at Ashford United and says the club’s fan base was a big reason why he wanted to return.

The Harlow-based prolific striker, who started his career as youth team goalkeeper at Ipswich Town, now scores goals rather than saving them.

He scored twice at Deal on Tuesday night, and has now hit four in four games since returning to Homelands from Thamesmead Town, a move the club kept under wraps, to avoid alerting other clubs.

Zanone who featured for United in their Kent Invicta League days but said: “I have kept in touch with Paul (Chambers) since leaving and he was on the phone to me as soon as he knew I was leaving Thamesmead.

“I had hoped to be there for the season but a few things have happened.

"I had a few offers from elsewhere but I am pleased to be back. Ashford is a big club with great support, better than some clubs get in the league above.”

Unbeaten United’s latest victory keeps them second, four points ahead of Phoenix Sports ahead of Saturday’s visit to Croydon.

Zanone’s arrival and fellow new-boy Andy Irvine’s recovery from a hamstring injury is a double boost for Chambers.

He won’t, however, push Irvine straight back, saying: "Andy came off the bench at Deal, and nearly scored a great goal but we don’t want to risk him too much and maybe put him out for a long time because he is an important part of our squad.”

United are at home to Lordswood on Tuesday night (7.45pm).
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