Ramsgate manager Lee Martin on defender Mason Hunter’s loan move from Charlton Athletic, beating Chichester and why there’s still plenty to play for

Ramsgate manager Lee Martin has high hopes for on-loan Charlton defender Mason Hunter.

Hunter has joined the Rams from the Addicks’ academy, making his debut as a late substitute in a 2-1 Isthmian Premier win at Chichester on Saturday.

The centre-half came through the youth ranks at Charlton, captaining the under-18s to league honours, and featuring in the Premier League Cup for their under-21s.

Martin was invited to take Hunter and it’s a deal that works for all parties.

“We were light in terms of our defensive cover, so we thought we’d activate it,” said Martin.

“It’s a win-win for us. We get to have a look at him and have another body in, and he’s got an opportunity to get some game time, which is perfect for him.

“He was in at Dartford but we’re probably a better model to come to because we are relatively light, whereas Dartford have got bodies around that position, so there will be opportunities for him to get minutes.

“It’s down to him and it’s down to us to see whether he fits into our style of play.

“If he hits anywhere near the level of his potential, then he won’t be with us.

“We brought him on to protect in front of the back four and I thought he was superb in the nine or 10 minutes he got, just to sniff out things.

“He understands the game really well and speaking to my pal, Chris Solly (Martin’s former team-mate, now Charlton youth coach), he’s a big advocate that he’ll suit this level better than most.

“His understanding and his defensive capabilities are there, he just needs the opportunity.

“He’ll get that here. He’s still a young boy, so we’re not expecting him to come in and hit the ground running.

“He’s got a lot to learn, he knows that, but he’s definitely going to get some game time in the next few