The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
New Spalding United striker Charley Sanders has been backed to find his feet at the Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field.
Sanders, who lists the likes of King’s Lynn Town, Boston United and Holbeach United among his former clubs, joined the Tulips from Wisbech Town on Monday.
Physically powerful and capable of scoring prolifically, the striker will provide competition for Michael Frew, Josh Moreman, Tom Waumsley and Jordan Nuttell in a strong-looking squad.
Despite his positive attributes, Sanders has floated from club to club over the past few seasons.
Tulips chief Rayment thinks the hitman can make a fresh start at the Sir Halley – and has backed him to shine under his management.
Rayment said: “We’ve been following Charley for quite a while now.
“People forget that he’s still only 20 years old. For the past three seasons he’s been used as a battering ram by various clubs because of his bulk, for want of a better word.
“He’s never really settled anywhere, but I don’t think that’s his fault. He’s certainly gained a hell of a lot of experience playing at some top clubs and under some good managers.
“I think he’ll find that Spalding United is the perfect environment for him right now.
“We’ve got eight players under the age of 23 now and he’ll thrive, I’m sure.”
Rayment admits that a glowing reference from respected Wisbech chief Brett Whaley prompted him to finally firm up his interest in Sanders.
The striker played a key role in helping the Fenmen win all three of their opening UCL Premier Division fixtures, including scoring a goal in a 4-2 win at Peterborough Northern Star – another of his former sides.
Speaking to Wisbech’s official Facebook page, Whaley said: “It’s a good opportunity for Charley to play at a higher level at a club going places.
“He’s been excellent during his short spell here, and I wish him all the best on his move.”
Once considered something of a hot-head, Rayment is convinced that Sanders’ “bad boy” days are behind him – and he’s expecting him to surprise a few people at the Sir Halley.
“I know defenders will always try and wind him up,” added the Tulips chief. “Charley is a big lad, but I think he’s worked on that aspect of his game.
“Personally, I think he’ll surprise people here.
“I’ve got a good feeling for him, I think he’ll fit right in and do a great job.
“Brett gave me a glowing reference of just how good he’s been at Wisbech – so that’s good enough for me.
“He’s another player on the doorstep for us and he fits the blueprint for the kind of player we want.”
Sanders went straight into the Spalding squad to face Sheffield FC on Tuesday night – and scored (see page 47).
