JACK Clampin hopes to produce the best form of his non-league career after rejoining FC Clacton.

The midfielder has returned for his third spell with the Seasiders, having previously helped the club achieve their highest-ever step five finish in the 2015-16 campaign.

Since then he has played for both Stanway Rovers and Brantham Athletic but the 23-year-old is delighted to be back at the Rush Green Bowl.

“I know the club well and it’s great to be back,” said Clampin, whose return was confirmed by the club on June 15.

“I’ve got a lot of friends here and because of that I know I’m going to enjoy it – something that will hopefully bring the best out in me.

“Confidence and morale are high and that’s when you produce your best form and performances.

“I certainly feel good about my football and hopefully we can have a really good season together and push on.

“We’ve definitely got the ability to do that and after being part of the side that achieved the club’s best-ever step five finish a couple of years ago, I’d love to think we could do even better next season.”

Work commitments forced Clampin to take a break from football and leave Brantham in January.

However, he was always keen to return this term and admits it was an easy decision to join Clacton.

“(Manager) Tom (Austin) is a friend of mine and it’s been really good so far,” he said.

“Everyone likes and respects him.

“(Assistant) Ade Webster is another great football man who knows his stuff and he’s someone I’ve known for years, since I was a youngster at Colchester United.

“We’re looking good for next season and I think we’re going to be fitter and sharper than some of the other sides.

“We returned to training a week or so before many others and the sessions have been excellent – lots of fitness drills followed by some ball work at the end.

“Fitness is such a big thing in our league because it’s so physical and competitive but also because it’s important to avoid niggling injuries.

“We’re certainly going to be fit and ready to go when the season starts in August.”

Clacton get their pre-season schedule of friendlies underway tonight when they visit Bostik League division north outfit Aveley (kick-off 7.45pm), who are managed by former Brightlingsea Regent boss James Webster.

The Seasiders then play Colne Athletic at Strangers Corner, in Church Road, Brightlingsea, on Saturday (2pm).

Their next match after that will be at Little Oakley on July 14.

“We can’t wait to start converting some of the things we’ve been working on in training into matches, albeit friendlies,” added Clampin.

“Aveley will be a good test tonight against higher-placed opposition and Colne did brilliantly last season, winning the Border League division three title at a canter, staying unbeaten and winning 22 matches out of 22.”