BRANTHAM Athletic manager Michael Brothers believes his latest signing is going to be a revelation in the Thurlow Nunn League.

The Imps boss has signed his brother, Patrick, from Southern League premier division central side Leiston.

The 28-year-old is joining as player-assistant manager and, given his quality and experience, is expected to be a big hit at step five level.

“It’s going to be brilliant having him on board,” said manager Brothers.

“We’re close, as you’d expect, and it’s going to be lovely having someone I trust so much alongside me in the dressing room.

“Patrick’s been at Leiston for nine or ten years but the travelling has taken its toll, as he lives in Colchester.

“This is a great opportunity for him as it’s so much closer to home and will give him his first insight into management.

“His experience at a higher level will be a big factor for us and he’s someone the boys will be able to talk to.

“But he’s also going to be a very important player for us.

“He’s played at step three for so many years so has vast experience of the level above.

“He’s left-footed, which is a massive asset, but I’d say his work-rate is probably his biggest attribute. He’s non-stop.”

The Brantham boss says his new recruit will start in central midfield and is expected to be a regular goalscorer.

“Patrick would probably say himself he hasn’t scored the number of goals he’d like down the years,” said Brothers.

“However, with his experience, fitness and quality, I’d expect him to be a regular scorer for us.

“He’s going to play in central midfield.

“That’s his preferred position and that’s where we’re going to get the most out of him.

“It’s a real coup and a signing that can only be good news for the club.

“Patrick’s a well-known player and you never know – his arrival could help us get another new signing on board and maybe another sponsor.”

Former Colchester United youngster Patrick was previously with Brantham before joining Leiston.

His last game for the Victory Road side was Wednesday's Suffolk Premier Cup final against Felixstowe and Walton at Ipswich Town's Portman Road, which they won 3-2.

Meanwhile, manager Brothers says he fully expects George Clarke to move on during the close season.

“George wants to play at a higher level and I completely understand and respect that,” he said.

“While I’d be sorry to lose him, I hope he gets a nice move to the level above or even step three.

“Having played alongside him and also managed him, I can safely say he’s good enough.

“I’m sure he’ll have opportunities and clubs will be interested in his signature.”

Mason Lumley and Dan Rowe will also be missing from the squad next season as they are off to university.

Brantham return for pre-season training on June 27 and their first friendly is at home to Felixstowe and Walton on July 18.

They then have a home date with Capel St Mary on July 20.

Brantham’s other scheduled friendlies are all away, to Harwich and Parkeston, Stanway Pegasus, Sudbury and Brightlingsea Regent.