Former Chelsea and Crystal Palace youngster Alistair Gordon has joined Sittingbourne.

Gordon, who plays in defence or midfield, looked set for a big future after winning the FA Youth Cup with the Blues and representing England at under-16, under-17 and under-18 levels.

A professional contract at Palace followed but he was released at the end of last season. Brickies have signed him from Southern Counties East Phoenix Sports.

Sittingbourne boss Nick Davis said: “I’ve only seen him in one training session but he has a lot of energy, is good on the ball and technically good. They’re qualities you’d expect from a player of that pedigree but everyone’s asking the same question – how has he ended up in non-league?

“If he hits the ground running, we might not have him long, or he might be here for the next year. You just don’t know but it’s definitely a risk worth taking.”

Gordon could make his debut when Brickies travel to Ryman League Division 1 South strugglers Hastings on Saturday. Midfielder Peter Smith is also available after rejecting a move to Whitstable.

Centre-half Bill French is unavailable for Hastings, so Jono Richardson may move from left-back to partner George Crimmen. Lee Pleau is another option after returning from Tunbridge Wells, or Davis could make a rare appearance himself.

Last weekend’s match at South Park was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.