Paul Doswell has been busy this week with some outgoing loans, and a significant incoming signing as he was delighted to confirm the return of Ross Stearn from Eastleigh on a two-year contract. Like Tom Bolarinwa, who rejoined on loan last week, Ross played a significant role with eight goals in the Vanarama National League South success, and also played an important part in the early stages of last season's FA Cup run before joining Eastleigh almost exactly a year ago.
Paul commented: ''I'm absolutely delighted with the signing. Ross is a player who played his best football with us, and his ability to cross the ball and score important goals was second to none. He is such a positive character to have around the club and in the dressing room and the players are delighted he's coming back home.
Ross was equally thrilled to re-sign." I had a brilliant two years at Sutton and have really missed the dressing room and supporters who were fantastic with me. I've always kept a look out for our results and the boys have done an amazing job. It really feels like I'm coming home and to put on the amber shirt again is so exciting. It didn't work out for me at Eastleigh but it was a decision I made at the time that was best for my family so I have no regrets on that score. I've missed playing though, and hopefully can repay the gaffer's trust and belief in me".
With regards to the loans for Anthony Jeffrey to Dover and Adam Coombes to Hampton & Richmond, Paul commented: " AJ was allowed to leave as it's important at his age to be be playing games, and the form of Kieron Cadogan and Josh Taylor plus the signing of Tom meant that wasn't happening. We wish him well at Dover, who have the option to sign him for the rest of the season, so it's unlikely we will see him back. Adam has now fully recovered from the really nasty ankle injury he suffered in pre-season and will come back fully match-fit after his month with Hampton and be ready to make I think a significant impact on the second half of the season. We have also agreed two other loans out to happen next week as Nicky Bailey and Simon Walton are fit again and Craig Eastmond starts running in seven days. As ever we have to be aware of the budget and all these loan situations enable us to keep on track."
In one more move on Friday evening, winger Jeffrey Monakana, who has been on loan at Welling United since August, has made his move permanent and we wish him well at Park View Road.