by Andrew Gidley

Chatham boss Kevin Watson says he tried to sign much-travelled striker Jean-Michel Sigere last season.

The 35-year-old Martinque-born forward is the first new face at Maidstone Road, the 18th club of a career which started at Bordeaux 15 years ago.

Chats are his fifth Kent club, following two spells with Margate, Gravesend and Tonbridge.

Watson (pictured) said: "I tried to get him but the offer from Grays was too good for him to turn down.

"We haven’t pushed the boat out to get him this time but his circumstances have changed. There are still a few i’s to be dotted and t’s to be crossed but both parties are more than happy with the arrangement and he has signed.

"He wants to be part of the bigger picture at Chatham and use his experience to help some of the younger members of the squad and he will also bring a lot to the pitch as well.

"We played against him twice last season and although he didn’t start the second game, he came on and effected the game."

Meanwhile, Watson says reports that defender Jason Barton has signed for Kent Hurlimann League Canterbury are premature.

He said: "It has not definitely happened but that’s not to say it won’t."

Defender Chris Hill has left the club while a new reserve management team will consist of Darren Phillips and assistant Mike Langston.