Abbo’s Update

With the transfer deadline approaching, manager Carl Abbott has moved to add strength in depth to the squad with a busy season finale coming.

There are three new additions to the squad in Reece Hayes, Ryan Paddock and Lee Chilton, while Jean Kalenda also returns to a squad of which Bilal Yafai is no longer part.

With injuries still playing a part, Alex Penny tweaked his hamstring again on Saturday and will not feature in tonight’s game at Pilkington XXX as a result.

Described as ‘a tricky and talented central midfielder’, Hayes having featured prominently from West Bromwich Albion’s Under 21s before his release from the Baggies, and has most recently played for Barwell.

Paddock is a central defender who has played alongside Sam Agar in the British Army team. Formerly of Cheltenham Town and Bristol Rovers, Ryan is a leader and commanding centre half.

Meanwhile, Chilton arrives on dual registration from Leamington. He has been in and out of the Brakes team this term, and will feature for both outfits as and when required for the remainder of the season. A former Hinckley United man, he can operate anywhere across the forward line or midfield.

Abbo said: ‘These players will feature to differing degrees, dependent on our circumstances, but we hope all may have a future at the club moving on into next season.

‘I have also made the decision to allow Jean Kalenda to return to the club. Time is a healer as they say, and I am a big believer in people having second chances. Jean is well aware he let everybody down, and came to our game on Saturday to apologise in person to the players and supporters.

‘It was a really nice touch to hear our supporters sing his song during the game, and abated any fears I had he would not be accepted back.’

All four players have been registered in time to feature in the game this evening.