BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent manager Tom Rothery believes new signing Joe Yaxley will improve his side in the final third.

The midfielder has joined from Thurlow Nunn League premier division outfit Brantham Athletic and, after training with his new team-mates on Thursday, he went straight into the starting line-up for Saturday's 2-1 Bostik League premier division defeat at leaders Dorking Wanderers.

He featured for 79 minutes before being replaced by Matt Baxter.

"Joe's a technically-strong player who has impressed for Brantham," said Regent boss Rothery, whose side have an FA Trophy assignment at Hayes and Yeading United on Saturday.

"We’ve had him watched several times and I feel he can add something to us in the final third.

"Once again, he strengthens the squad and options we have at our disposal.

"Thanks to the Brantham management team of Swanny (Ben Swan), Craig (Hughes) and Sibbo (Jack Sibbons), who were excellent with this transfer."

Yaxley, 23, moved to Brantham from Bury Town and has also played in the Welsh League.

Meanwhile, Regent's Milo Grimes will now be staying with Stanway Rovers for the remainder of the season, after a short loan at the Essex Senior League side.

"His impressive displays have helped Stanway climb the league and we wish him the best," added Rothery.

Brightlingsea have a rearranged premier division date at home to Worthing next Tuesday, November 27.