Herne Bay manager Ben Smith optimistic he can get even more out of full-back Harrison Hatfull as he also discusses summer signings of striker Joe Taylor and playmaker Jacob Lambert

Ben Smith is optimistic he can get even more out of Herne Bay full-back Harrison Hatfull.

Hatfull has returned to Winch’s Field ahead of the forthcoming campaign from Margate, albeit didn’t play a competitive fixture for the club after he first joined in December 2022.

He has already enjoyed two stints at Hartsdown Park and also played Isthmian Premier football with Dulwich Hamlet under ex-Maidstone manager Hakan Hayrettin.

While Bay boss Smith reckons Hatfull, still only in his mid-20s, will bring a lot to the Isthmian South East outfit, he also sees room for improvement in his game.

Smith said: “We’re really pleased to get Harrison in.

“We have been close to working with each other a couple of times and just the circumstances around that didn’t work. But it was something that was always going to happen, to be honest, because there’s a lot of mutual respect.

“I think he can be a lot better than what he is. That’s mad because he has played 200 games for Margate and has been one of the best full-backs in the league for a long time.

“We’re getting an experienced player that has been in and around the play-offs at this level, has played in a higher division, and has got the right mindset and attitude. I’m expecting him to really add something for us with his experience.

“I think we can make him an even better player but, also, I think he will bring a lot to the dressing room.”

Hatfull will be reacquainted with prolific striker Joe Taylor, whom he played alongside at Margate, as the 35-year-old reunites with his former Ramsgate manager at Herne Bay.

While Taylor played for five clubs last year, few doubt the quality of the Rams’ record goalscorer - least of all Smith.

“It’s interesting, hearing people talk about football at