by Craig Tucker

Justin Luchford has dismissed suggestions the signing of Nicky Southall could turn Whitstable into title contenders.

Boss Luchford expects the former Gillingham and Bolton ace to lift his side to another level but he’s not getting carried away.

He said: "People can say what they want but it’s ridiculous to be talking about us as title contenders just because we’ve signed Nicky Southall.

"We have our targets but there’s no pressure on us at all.

"We finished fourth-bottom last season so how can there be?

"There are plenty of clubs spending big money and shouting from the rooftops about how good they are but we’re not one of them.

"There will be two or three teams who are head-and-shoulders above everyone else but if we can be 10th going into February, we’ll see where it takes us."

Southall is yet to train with Whitstable but Luchford (pictured) is looking forward to seeing him.

He added: "What he gives us can only be positive. The lads will take confidence from having him on the pitch.

"They’ll feel confident giving him the ball and receiving it from him."

Do you think the Oystermen are title contenders? Have your say below.