Tonbridge manager Jay Saunders on finally bringing former Charlton Athletic midfielder Jason Adigun to Longmead

Jay Saunders believes new loan signing Jason Adigun is just the man to help Tonbridge build on their fine start to the season.

Boss Saunders is a long-time admirer of the attacking midfielder who first came to his attention in a pre-season friendly against Charlton, shortly after taking over at Longmead two years ago.

A loan deal was discussed with the Addicks at various points but never got over the line and the youngster joined Dagenham in the summer after leaving the Valley.

Saunders learned the Daggers were willing to loan him out and wasted no time in making his move.

Adigun could make his debut this Saturday (3pm) as third-placed Tonbridge bid to extend their unbeaten start to the National League South campaign at home to Hampton & Richmond.

“I tried to get him in last season but the timing didn’t allow us to,” said Saunders, who’s signed Adigun on loan until January.

“I really liked him when I first saw him a couple of years ago and, to be fair, Steve Avory (ex-Charlton academy director) kept offering him to us but every time he was available, we couldn’t do it.

“Then when we did enquire, he wasn’t allowed out, so the timing was never quite right.

“He went to Dagenham in the summer and I get on well with them there.

“They made me aware last week there was a possibility of taking him on loan and it was a no-brainer to do it.

“He adds something different in those forward areas.

“He brings creativity, he drives with the ball, he’s got a change of pace and he can score goals.

“When things are going well, you want to see where you can strengthen and improve.

“If teams are coming here and maybe sitting behind the ball a little bit, it’s good that we have that extra creativity.”

Tonbridge and Hampton are at opposite ends