CANVEY Island manager Danny Heale has labelled the return of versatile powerhouse Tambeson Eyong as “a big coup” for the club.

The 24-year-old rejoined the Gulls on Wednesday, having previously departed for Kent side Margate last October.

But, following Margate’s promotion to the National League South, Eyong was released by Gate manager Terry Brown and he has been lured back to Canvey as they gear-up their own bid for promotion from the Ryman Premier League.

And Heale says the central midfielder, who is also an accomplished right-back, was another signal of intent as to the club’s ambitions next term.

“It is a big coup for us,” said the Gulls manager. “We had Tam here last year and he knows what we are about so he was pleased to come back.

“He enjoyed his time here and he has now decided to return which we are really pleased about. He had to come back down to reality a bit as the money Margate were throwing around was crazy and no-one can compete with that.

“But he is ready to help us again and it is a real signing of intent.”

Heale has acted quickly following the close of last season, which saw the Gulls avoid relegation on the final day of term, with Eyong the fifth signing of an already busy summer.

Goalkeeper Jake Larkins, defenders Richard Halle and Steve Sheehan and midfielder Glenn Poole have already joined the Prospects Stadium club.

And Heale says Canvey’s midfield options are looking very strong, with Harrison Chatting another good option in a central area.

“We have good options,” said Heale. “With Glenn Poole’s guile and Tam’s power we are in a good place. All we need is a striker or two and then we will be ready for the new season.”