Chatham Town chairman-manager Kevin Hake on Matt Bodkin – 40 next month – as they start Isthmian Premier season with wins over Bognor Regis Town and Folkestone Invicta

There’s no reason why evergreen Chatham defender Matt Bodkin cannot play on for a few years yet, according to his boss.

Bodkin claimed an assist in Chats’ opening-day Isthmian Premier 1-0 win over Bognor as he crossed for debutant forward Jamie Yila to head in last weekend.

Bodkin - 40 next month - began his career as a winger with Gillingham but plays as a full-back these days and is showing no signs of slowing down.

Chatham chairman-manager Kevin Hake said: “He defies logic and, now he’s playing full-back for us, who knows?

“He could play for another three or four years! He was sort of in cruise control on Saturday.

“It’s really pleasing to see because he deserves it. He works really hard, as all the boys do.”

Others to play the full game for Chatham against Bognor included player-assistant Danny Kedwell, who recently turned 40, and another 39-year-old in centre-half Dean Beckwith.

Their experience could prove to be key as Chats aim to adapt to playing at Step 3.

“They embrace the young kids and vice-versa,” Hake noted.

“Their experience is crucial, especially when you’re seeing out games.

“They provide that calming factor when you need it most.”

Another involved was striker Chinedu McKenzie, whose signing was revealed the day before the big kick-off, and he came off the bench for his competitive bow in the second half.

It’s an encouraging sign that even players like former Tonbridge and Carshalton man McKenzie aren’t automatically being handed starting berths.

Hake said: “I had to leave four lads out [of the squad] on Saturday, who were disappointed. But they’ve shown a great attitude.

“We’ve said to the lads that it’s all about a squad. If you look at last year, it was all about the squad, which went on to win the