Chatham Town have pulled off one of the most eye-catching signings yet after completing a deal for experienced forward Nile Ranger.
The 34-year-old arrives at the Bauvill Stadium with a wealth of Football League experience and will bolster the Chats’ attacking options as they continue their push for promotion in the Isthmian Premier Division.
Ranger came through the ranks at Newcastle United, signing a long-term deal at the age of 19, and made his Premier League debut as a teenager, scoring on his full debut against West Bromwich Albion in 2009.
He went on to make over 60 appearances for the Magpies across all competitions before moving on.
Following his departure from St James’ Park, Ranger had spells with Swindon Town, Blackpool and Southend United, scoring 24 goals in 147 games playing in the Premier League and EFL.
Ranger’s career has also been marked by well-documented off-field issues, which led to his premature exit from Newcastle.
While at Southend United, he played with an electronic tag after being released from prison for online banking fraud — the second time he had served a custodial sentence, having previously spent time in a young offenders’ institute as a teenager.
On the field, he has remained a proven goalscorer. Chatham will hope his experience and ability can make a real impact on and off the pitch.
He’s played for non-league clubs including Boreham Wood and Kettering Town in recent years.
Ranger scored 18 goals in 50 appearances for Kettering, including a dramatic extra-time winner in the FA Cup first round against neighbours Northampton Town last season.
He was most recently at Northern Premier League Division 1 side Wellingborough Town, joining them on a short-term deal in October. He left them earlier this week. The striker also plays in the Baller League UK for N5 FC.
It’s yet to be confirmed whether the new signing is going to feature this Saturday when Chatham face his old team Southend United in the FA Trophy.
A bumper crowd is expected at the Bauvill Stadium for the fifth-round tie.
