The signing of young Bromley striker Jacob Erskine may have been a shock to many - and no-one was more surprised than the player himself.

Erskine, 20, was released at the end of last season by Dagenham and just days ago he was preparing for a season with Blue Square South Bromley and an opening day fixture at Worcester City.

An impressive display, however, against the Gills in their pre-season match at Bromley caught manager Mark Stimson’s eye and he signed a one year deal.

"It’s been an amazing turn around," he said. "I left Dagenham and I thought I would just have to give it until Chrismas to see if anyone was interested. I’ve just done a bit pre-season and it’s just gone from there."

Erskine began his career at local side Croydon Athletic and has played on loan at Margate and Maidstone. Last season he spent time with Conference South side Dorchester.

His time in the professional game looked like being at an end after the Daggers released him after two years at the club without a first team appearance.

He said: "I never really got a look in there but the gaffer at Gillingham obviously likes the way I play.

"He has brought me in for his team, it’s not as though I’m just going to sign and be nobody, hopefully I can do a bit and prove I can play for the team.

"I think he likes my work-rate and the way I try my hardest. I go for every header and never stop working."

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