Ebbsfleet manager Dennis Kutrieb has backed new striker Nathan Odokonyero to be a surprise package in the National League. The 20-year-old joined the Fleet from Isthmian Premier Bognor for an undisclosed fee on Saturday after impressing during the opening weeks of pre-season.
He played two friendlies as ‘Trialist A’ but Kutrieb saw enough during those matches and in training to push through a deal for a player who spent time at Chelsea and Brighton as a youngster before joining Lincoln City.
He’s been at Bognor for the last two seasons. “We saw him first at Bognor Regis and we liked what he did there,” said Kutrieb. “Because he’s so young I think he can learn so many things. “He has the basics, he can score goals and he works a lot off the ball as well.
He has a good work-rate, a good attitude and good character. “He’s such a young player that if we get him prepared and ready then he can be a big surprise for everyone.” Odokonyero scored 25 goals for Bognor last season but Kutrieb insisted that he’s got time on his side at Stonebridge Road.