Ashford United announce host of summer signings and retained players

New Ashford United boss Kevin Watson has made his first summer signings.

Defenders Harvey Brand and Jonah Tolulope have arrived from Beckenham and VCD respectively.

And they’ve been joined by left-back Tom Carlse from Ramsgate and defensive midfielder Connor Dymond, who worked with Watson at Herne Bay and Cray Valley.

Brand was part of the Becks side who reached the Isthmian South East play-offs.

Watson said: “Harvey was an integral part of Beckenham’s success last season, making the most league appearances out of their squad.

“We’ve monitored Harvey for a number of seasons are delighted to now be working with him.

“He is versatile and can perform in a number of positions, which is a great attribute to have.”

VCD may have been relegated but Watson saw something he liked in Tolulope.

He said: “We watched Tolu on three separate occasions last season and were impressed each time.

“Whilst experienced, Tolu is a player we feel we can improve further and add real impact this season.”

Carlse is well known to Ashford fans from his first spell at Homelands.

Watson said: “Tom’s aspirations, high standards and mannerisms are traits which align with our own.

“He has won this league previously and brings experience, which will strengthen the group.”

Dymond can also play at the back, and it’s perhaps no surprise to see him link up with Watson again.

“He is a natural winner and adds great strength to the team we’re assembling,” said Watson.

Ashford, meanwhile, have retained the services of a number of players.

Goalkeepers Jacob Russell and Connor Towens are on board, along with defenders Bradley Simms, Tariq Ossai and Charlie Dickens.

Midfielder Rhyle Ovenden and forward Johan ter Horst have also agreed to be part of Watson’s squad as