However,
the signings of Matthew Barnes-Homer, Sheridan Martinez and Mohamed Akanji couldn`t
prevent a 4-1 home defeat to Worksop Town on Martyn Davies` return as manager.
Barnes-Homer (pictured) and Martinez both join Drayton on dual registration from Vanarama National League
North neighbours AFC Telford United.
The
vastly experienced 33-year-old Barnes-Homer spent three years in the youth
system at Wolves, and the Dudley-born player had spells in the USA before
returning to the UK, where he established himself as a goalscorer, most notably
with Kidderminster Harriers in 2009.
That
earned him a move to Luton Town for a reputed £75,000 fee, and he scored 19
goals in his debut season.
From
there he has been a nomadic figure, representing clubs the length and breadth
of Britain as well as in Sweden and back in the USA, scoring goals along the
way.
He
signed for Telford in June 2017 and has also represented England C.
He
combines playing with a coaching role at the New Bucks Head.
Goalkeeper
Martinez, 26, also signed dual forms for Southern League Premier Division
Central side Barwell in late August.
He
has played at National League level with Solihull Moors and with Telford and
has also had spells with Bedworth United, Hereford United, Hednesford Town and
Total Motion Midland League Premier Division side Sporting Khalsa.
Also
joining Drayton is big 17-year-old centre-back Mohamed Akandji on `work
experience` from SkyBet Championship side Stoke City.
Akandji
featured for the Potters 14 times in the under-18 Premier League last season,
was one of three youngsters brought in from French side SC Amiens.
On
his induction into the Stoke academy, he was described as `a dominating
centre-back who is built like a man mountain at 16 but has good feet too`.
Premier
League side Chelsea were rumoured to want to sign him in the summer but were thwarted
by their transfer ban. |