Manager Jay Saunders is confident Tonbridge can help Stefan Payne address his disciplinary record without compromising his game.

Ex-Football League striker Payne has joined Angels from fellow National South outfit Welling.

The 31-year-old, whose former clubs including Gillingham, Barnsley and Shrewsbury, scored 11 goals for the Wings last season despite missing a number of games through suspension.

“I think he had three reds and 17 yellows,” said Saunders, who saw Payne score in a 1-1 friendly draw with Stansfeld on Monday night.

“He had his disciplinary issues last year but I put that down to him maybe not being in the right environment.

“I think if we manage him right and have him in the right environment we can get the best out of him.

“He’s someone I’ve known for a long time, I tried to sign him many times at Maidstone and when he became available, it was a no-brainer to get him in.

“We spoke about his disciplinary record and obviously it’s got to improve and he’s aware of that.

“That’s what I’m saying about the right environment.

“If we can give him that, we’ll get the best out of him and I’m sure we’ll be able to control it.

“You don’t want to take away an edge from someone that’s always been there, because then you’re taking part of their game away, but at the same time it’s got to be controlled.”

With his card count under control, Saunders knows Payne has the tools to be a big asset for Tonbridge.

“He’s been about, he’s scored goals and he’s still only 31,” said the Angels boss.

“He’s not past it, he’s still mobile, and he scored in a friendly on Monday night.

“The easiest way to say it is you’d rather have him in your side than against you.

“He’s a different option to what we’ve got, he’s got good experience and I’m pleased to have him on board.

“He’s not quite up to speed, where he’s missed a lot of pre-season, but he’s bought in to what we want to do.”

Tonbridge held a meet the players afternoon at Longmead on Sunday, where Saunders spoke about a promotion challenge.

They just missed out on the play-offs last season, achieving their best-ever finish in the division of ninth, and are aiming to build on that.

“We had a good turnout and there’s a real positive feel around the place,” said Saunders.

“It’s no different this year, we’ve said we’ll try and make the play-offs.

“That’s the aim every year, to try and get promoted. That’s why you’re in football.

“At the same time, you’ve got to manage expectations because the league is a lot tougher this year and I made people fully aware of that.

“But I’m pleased we’ve strengthened and hopefully we can have a good season.

“We’re still after a left-back. We’re talking to a few. That’s the one area we need someone.

“Everywhere else, I’m quite happy with.”

Tonbridge, edged 1-0 by Ebbsfleet last Friday, beat Charlton under-21s 5-1 on Tuesday night.

They host Hythe in their next friendly on Saturday (3pm) and entertain Gillingham on Tuesday (7.45pm).