ANDY Burgess is confident new recruit Ricky Anane will prove a significant capture for Barnton.

The former Bury, Woking and Stockport Sports midfielder signed for the Villagers this week following a spell playing in Australia.

And he is no stranger to the North West Counties League either after being picked as Premier Division player of the year three seasons ago.

“I’ve kept tabs on Ricky since playing with him,” said Burgess, assistant manager at Townfield and a teammate of Anane at Woking.

“When I played with him he was a quick, agile full back who I thought was playing at too low a level. 

“He’s played more in midfield recently, which proves how good a footballer he is.

“It’s no surprise to me he was voted as best player in our league, and I’ve no doubt his introduction to the group will be a positive step forward.”

Anane, 26, is keen to get started.

“I want to get us promoted,” he said.

“There’s a good set of lads here, and I hope I can add to that.

“I played with Andy a few years back, so when he invited me to training, it was a no-brainier.”

Barnton, who have also signed Adam Garner and Jamie Hayes this month, saw their home clash with Daisy Hill postponed at the weekend after two pitch inspections.

They return to action in Division One at Widnes this Saturday.