BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent have bolstered their injury-hit squad with two new signings.

Manager Tom Rothery has brought in young Colchester United defender George Keys and former Ipswich Town striker Billy Clark.

Keys, who can play anywhere across the back line, is joining on work experience, initially for a month, and arrives at the R's following a spell with Bostik League division north side Maldon and Tiptree.

Clark, meanwhile, made his debut for Ipswich as a substitute in a 1-1 draw against Doncaster Rovers in April 2010.

He made two further appearances from the bench in the 2009/10 season, against Newcastle United and Sheffield United.

He left Portman Road at the age of 20, in 2011, before joining Bury Town, where he had a successful spell under then manager Richard Wilkins.

He linked up with Wilkins again at Leiston and Needham Market, where he also worked alongside Regent manager Rothery.

“The injuries to JT (Jake Turner), Sam (Ashford) and Jack (Newman) have left us a bit short so I’ve been looking to add a couple to bulk up the squad again and I’m pleased I’ve been able to add George and Billy," said Rothery.

"George is a young defender who I was made aware of by Liam Bailey, who works with him at Colchester.

"He can add competition to our back line while gaining some worthwhile experience as part of his development.

"Billy is a lad I know well.

"He’s got real quality and I think he can add something different to us.

"We play with real intensity as a team and I think Billy can add some guile and composure to that in forward areas.

"He’s 26, has played at this level and higher and, in truth, Billy just needs a run of games to show the ability he has.

"Hopefully he can do that with us at Regent."

Rothery expressed his gratitude to Colchester and Needham Market for their help in getting the deals done.