Sheppey United manager Ernie Batten is hoping their club can be the perfect platform for some rough diamonds to flourish.

The Ites have picked up several new signings in the last few days and they were in action on Monday night during a 5-0 friendly win over Kennington.

“We have picked out some players we think could be hidden gems,” said the Ites boss.

“The money involved to get proven, quality players is huge and we are trying to balance it by having our own stellar players.

“We signed Danny Leonard and retained a lot of the squad from last season, but we have cherry-picked a few lads that we feel could make an impact in the Isthmian League.

“That remains to be seen because they have got to be tested at that level, but we are confident we can have a good season.”

On Monday’s evidence the newcomers look like they are going to settle in nicely.

Big, athletic central defender Lekan Majoyegbe has been with Margate previously and, at only 20, has plenty of years ahead of him. He was Corinthian’s young player-of-the-year last season.

“We have got high hopes for him,” Batten added.

There was a good turnout for Sheppey’s opening friendly and the faithful were treated to some goals from the newcomers.

Lively forward Rodney Adamon-Eruotor scored twice, one from open play and the other from the penalty spot after he had been tripped just inside the box.

He’s another young player with an opportunity to shine.

“We are going to sign him,” said Batten after the game.

“He has been playing Saturday football and some Sunday football in London.

“He’s another lad that we have looked at and thought ‘let’s see’.

“Let’s give them a go. He has a good turn of speed, he tries things and we like that, we have the pitch to play like that. He is a lad who could make an impact.

“We have the right set-up for these type of players who maybe have not broken through at other clubs, maybe because of the way they play or the environment, whatever it is.

“We give them an opportunity and we have set our sights on identifying a few of those players, and hopefully they will make it at the next level.”

One of Monday night’s substitutes was Nickal-David Luzolo, formerly of Fisher. He set one goal up for Michael Hagan and completed the scoring.

He was on trial at Sheppey last season but ended up at Fisher and scored some goals.

“I invited him back and we have signed him on a dual registration [with Fisher]. He is another player we will see how he develops,” Batten said.

Combative midfielder Tom Fitzgerald, who had played for Chatham previously, was among the trialists on Monday, as was experienced defender Scott Doe. The 33-year-old former Hythe Town defender is keen to show he still has plenty to offer.

Monday’s game also saw returning wideman Danny Leonard show what he can do, twice denied a goal by fine saves from the Ton keeper, while Dean Grant opened the scoring.

Sheppey are back in pre-season action at home to Maidstone this Saturday (3pm).