Manager Hayden Bird has secured Fabio Saraiva on a permanent deal, following the arrival of Dulwich Hamlet duo Walter Figueira and Amadou Tangara as reported on this site yesterday.

Talking to www.mersthamfc.com, Bird explained his decision to bolster the playing squad: "Although we are sitting in and around mid-table, mistakes have been costly. In my opinion, we should be in the top six and the next round of the FA Cup. Last week was very disappointing and I've decided

to make changes in personnel.

"I had a choice, act early while we were only 2 points from sixth and 5 points from second, or be patient, work with the players and find the solutions within the group.

"It's always my preference to try to work together to improve but I could not ignore the calibre of these players once they were made available.

"Fabio is an outstanding talent. The Woking manager is a friend and I'd like to thank him for making this possible.

"Fabio and I have always worked very well together and enjoyed an excellent relationship. I'm delighted he has returned to the club and he is very pleased to be back.

"Chris Haigh is an excellent goalkeeper and part of our plans. However, he has made mistakes and is the first to admit it. At this stage, we need to protect Chris and let him re-build his confidence. It's not a criticism and is perfectly natural for a young goalkeeper. Amadou impressed me for Dulwich last season, both in his technical ability and his ability to play under pressure. His introduction will take a little pressure off Chris and in working together, I think both goalkeepers will improve. I'm delighted to sign him.

"Walter is a player I like very much. He is a very technical player who will excite everyone. As a striker, he has the ability to score goals, play intricate football in tight areas and the pace to run in

behind.

"Without Charlie, we have two young players up front, being complimented by Dan Bennett. It's not fair to ask young men such as Calum Davies and RJ Pringling to shoulder such responsibility without support, while we can't expect Beno to suddenly decide he is a centre-forward at 30 years old!

"Signing a striker made sense to the balance of the squad and in Walter, we have a very good one! He initially joins us for three months on loan."

Bird confirmed all three players will be in Saturday's squad in the League Cup at Thamesmead Town on Saturday.

"This is a trophy we can win and therefore, a strong team will travel to Thamesmead.”

The manager also confirmed Merstham will host Dulwich Hamlet at the Specsavers Stadium this coming Tuesday.

In an incentive to both sets of supporters, the 100th fan to enter the stadium wins a night in the Merstham Tandoori with former Dulwich captain and now Merstham fans favourite, Kenny Beaney.

Following three arrivals, Hayden Bird has confirmed two departures in Tom Howard and Sean Bonnett-Johnson.

"It's really unfortunate that Tom's circumstances changed,"' explained Bird. "Tom has been promoted at Chelsea, which restricts his availability. Due to his new responsibilities at Cobham, he will not be available to train or play some weekends. It's a real shame, but we are delighted to see Tom going so well in Chelsea's academy."

"Sean has left in search of regular football. He suffered an injury in pre-season which has set him back a little. It's been frustrating for him and we all understand his decision. He wants to play, and we simply cannot give him the guarantees he is looking for. Sean is a very good footballer and a really good lad. We will miss him".