New arrival Steadman Callender wants to play his part in getting Whitstable back to where he feels they belong.

Prolific striker Callender has joined Marcel Nimani’s Oystermen this summer after a goal-laden 2022/23 campaign with Southern Counties East Premier Division rivals Erith Town.

The Belmont outfit finished fifth in their first campaign back at Step 5 and they will again aim to secure a return to Isthmian South East football in the upcoming season.

“It’s exciting times ahead with what Marcel’s told me and his plans for the club,” said Callender.

“I’m excited to get started. I’ve heard the fanbase is really good and the club is keen to get back to the Isthmian League - where it belongs.

“Like I said, I cannot wait.”

While both Whitstable and Erith Town play in the same league, the Oystermen had the second-best average crowd of 442 - topped only by Deal - while Erith Town were mid-table in the attendance charts with 115 on average.

Callender said: “The fanbase, from what I’ve heard, is another level.

“That’s no disrespect to Erith Town. I had a great time at Erith Town.

“But I’m moving down to a big club that has been established, playing at higher levels previously, which is where they deserve to be.

“You always want to fight for silverware - whether that’s the league, a cup or promotion through the new play-offs system.

“I’m sure, with the players we have got, we can fight for those targets together.

“I’m really looking forward to that.”

Callender has briefly encountered some of his new team-mates when playing against them - but only really knows winger Harry Gamble from their time together at Erith Town.

He explained: “Obviously from playing against people, you sort of get to know them.

“But the only person I know personally is Harry Gamble from when he was at Erith Town.

“He’s a good lad. I’m sure he will make me feel comfortable when I’m there.”

On how the move came about, Callender, who had options to join other clubs, added: “After the season finished, I got a message from Marcel, saying that he was interested in me and needed a striker.

“I came off the back of a season in which I scored 30 goals for Erith Town. I heard really good things about the club and had a good conversation with Marcel about how I would fit into their system.

“I wanted to be part of it.

“Hopefully, I can add to the players they’ve already got and can help the team finish in the top positions, fighting for promotion and, hopefully, win the league.”

Callender, who turns 30 next January, netted 30 goals in all competitions for Erith Town.

“If I can get more, that would be great,” he noted.

“With the way this team plays, and I know Marcel’s system, I’m sure I’ll get lots of chances.

“If I can get more than 30, that would be amazing.”

Fellow frontmen Dean Grant and James Jeffrey have also agreed to stay with the Oystermen, but goalkeeper coach Charlie Himbury has departed to link up with Isthmian Premier Lewes.