BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent boss Tom Rothery has bolstered his attacking options by bringing two new signings to the Taydal Stadium.

Former Harlow Town midfielder Billy Jones has been snapped up and he was followed later in the day by striker Reuben Mudd, who has signed on a work experience loan arrangement from Colchester United.

Jones is best known for his spell at Harlow, where he scored on his debut against Regent.

The 25-year-old also had spells at Grays, Walthamstow and Cheshunt, scoring 17 goals for the latter and taking over between the posts in a match against Brightlingsea.

He took the gloves and starred following an injury to the Cheshunt keeper.

“(Goalkeeper coach) John Albon made me aware there might be a possibility of signing Billy, having worked with him at Harlow," said Rothery.

"Once we’d spoken, it became quite an easy signing to finalise.

"Billy's looking to settle with a club and rediscover the form he had at Cheshunt and Harlow.

"History shows that as a club we help players in these instances to settle and enjoy their football.

"Billy's a top player who will really add some depth to the squad and add a bit of experience.

"The fact he can play in many attacking midfield positions and as a striker also adds versatility to our small squad."

Rothery was also delighted to sign Mudd - a former youth-team footballer at Holland FC.

The striker has already had two loan spells this season at Bostik League division north side Heybridge Swifts and Conference South outfit East Thurrock.

"We need more depth in the squad and Reuben adds to that," said Rothery.

"He can play as a striker or winger and has good pedigree.

"His time at other senior clubs this season will hopefully help this transition and he signs on the same work experience deal as George Keys, who was excellent last season, winning our young player-of-the-year award after signing at the same time as Reuben.

"Reuben is direct and has a good reputation for scoring goals."

On the flip side, Georgian powerhouse Morisi Gelashvilli could be out for eight weeks after breaking a bone in his foot in Saturday's 2-2 draw at Tonbridge Angels.

"I’m disappointed for Mo," added Rothery.

"He's been excellent for us since signing in November and is a popular lad in the changing room.

"His attitude is excellent and he’s really added something on the pitch for us, so he will be a big loss while he's out.

"But we'll support Mo and get him back as soon as we can and look forward to seeing him and his dad, Boris, at games very soon."