By Andrew Gidley

Derek Hares expects Jason Brazier and Mo Takaloo to sign for Deal Town next week when the squad returns for pre-season training.

Hares believes that Brazier, pictured, will be a key figure in his quest to mount a strong challenge in the Bulmers Cider Kent League Premier Division.

He said: "Jason is a good player who I have always liked. He is capable of scoring goals and will bring a lot of experience after several years at Hythe."

Striker Takaloo played with Brazier at Reachfields last season, and Hares is pleased to get him.

He said: "He wants to be close to home for family reasons and just enjoys playing football. He knows four or five of our players who were at Ramsgate with him and doesn’t want to travel too far."

He added: "I don’t think we were a million miles away last season but we underachieved and injuries were the reason for that.

"We had five players out for up to three months, including Roy Godden who had a groin problem and a blood clot in his leg. Having him back is like signing a new player."