Ebbsfleet’s new signing is an ideal recruit for a slimmed-down squad.

Alfie Egan was handed a contract by Fleet this week after a successful trial period.

Egan, who was released by AFC Wimbledon, is known as a midfielder but showed on Friday in a 3-1 win over Brighton’s under-23s that he can defend, too, slotting in at right-back.

Boss Garry Hill said: “It does make it a bit easier when you are working with smaller numbers, when one or two payers can fill in utility positions.

“He has come in as a trialist and done very well in pre-season. He has shown promise in games and we feel he is a player who could be a part of the football club going forward.

“We’ve looked at him in one or two positions. He is a very honest lad, he’s hard working and it’s nice to give a bit of reward to a younger player because sometimes they don’t get that opportunity.”

Egan is Fleet’s 10th signing of the summer and Hill’s new-look team start their National League campaign on Saturday at home to FC Halifax Town (3pm).

For Hill, it’s hopefully the start of positive things to come after a successful pre-season campaign. Fleet went unbeaten and avoided picking up any serious injuries.

He said: “Results aren’t the be-all and end-all in pre-season but I think it does give you a certain amount of confidence and belief when you are working with small numbers and you are trying to regroup a new set of lads together. It gives them a big boost.

“Against Brighton and Charlton we have played some very good, attractive football and it’s nice for the supporters to see that new fresh football in the club. As we know, things have changed at the club, a considerable amount financially.

“I think it is bit of freshness in the club having put a squad together with the help of Ian Hendon and MD Dave Archer.

“We have done our part in respect of putting a playing squad together and recouping finances to a structure that hopefully is more affordable and it’s down to the boss to play his part and make sure that is right.”

Last season was marred by problems with players not being paid.

Hill still hasn’t ruled out more additions, if finances allow.

He said: “We would like to add one or two more but, of course, it all comes down to finances and comes down to being the right player. But we are still looking, there is no doubt about that. I am quite happy with where we are.

“It’s been a long, hard-drawn summer getting players in with so many departures, but in the financial area now, Dave Archer has cleared a lot of mess up from previous people in those positions.

“From our point of view we have done everything and prepared everything and it’s really a case that the boss makes sure from his side he honours everything that has been said to us.”

Fleet have also handed a contract to academy midfielder Zach Dainkeh.

Hill confirmed Fleet haven’t offered a deal to former Dagenham striker Tomi Adeloye, who had been on trial.

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