Manager Scott Lindsey has praised Chatham striker Rob Denness, saying he is a better player than some would suggest.

Denness, who recently signed for Chatham from Southern Counties East League promotion rivals Sheppey, started in their 3-2 win over Hollands & Blair on Saturday.

Lindsey feels Denness has been labelled as a “big target man” – but the Chatham boss insists there is more to his game than that.

“Rob started on Saturday after coming on as a substitute the previous week,” said Lindsey.

“You could see what an attacking threat he is.

"He played 90 minutes for us and he was an integral part of what we did.

“So, I was pleased with him. He has a good goal-scoring record.

“But I think he has kind of been labelled as a big target man.

"I see Rob as a better player than that.

“He is actually a really clever player, he’s quite smart with his positioning and, technically, he is good as well. He is not just a big, strong lad. He is more than that.

“He’s a really massive signing for us and a good addition to the squad.”

Another recent arrival who started for Chatham in their victory over Simon Halsey’s side at Maidstone Road was Charlie Dickens.

Lindsey explained: “He is a centre-half we’ve signed from Canterbury.

“Charlie is only a young lad but he plays like a man.

“He is dominant at the back, good with the ball, can play with both feet and aerially he is really strong. He is quick, powerful, aggressive and a real strong leader that I needed at the back.

“He has churned out two really good performances for us so far.”

Chatham sit second in the table, four points behind leaders Beckenham, having played one more game.

“I think what’s important for us is that we keep winning games,” said Lindsey.

“If we keep doing that, I’m sure we will be in the position where we want to be, come the end of the season.

“At the moment we are doing well, in good form, playing good football and winning games.

“So, I couldn’t really be any happier.”

Chatham advanced into the last eight of the Challenge Cup with a 2-0 victory over AFC Croydon at Maidstone Road on Tuesday night.

Goals from Harvey Brown and James Jeffrey proved decisive as the tie was finally completed after last week’s original match in Croydon was abandoned during extra-time due to a floodlight failure.

Chatham will host Erith Town in the quarter-finals on Tuesday night.

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