FC CLACTON boss Tom Austin says new signing Max Booth is a match-winner who will prove a hit with Seasiders supporters.

The Colchester-based frontman was previously at AFC Sudbury and Needham Market and more recently with Stanway Pegasus.

Now he has joined Clacton, despite interest from a Bostik League side, and goes straight into the squad for tonight's Tolleshunt D'Arcy Memorial Cup quarter-final at Little Oakley.

“Max had the chance to join a higher-placed side but opted to come to us," said a delighted Austin.

“He’s looked at how we’re doing and how we’re running things here and thought ‘I want to be a part of that’.

“It’s another attacking option and he’s a very good player.

“He glides past people. He’s brilliant with the ball at his feet and he’s got the ability to win games on his own.

“He’s only young but he’s played at a higher level with Needham and Sudbury.

“He’s got real calibre and he should excite the fans. He’s certainly a player I’d like to watch week in, week out."

Austin believes his new signing shows the club's intent to progress.

Booth joins an impressive list of attacking players which also includes the likes of Adam Hampson, Karl Andrade, Jake Plane and Matt Eve.

“I’m just hoping he settles into the team nice and quickly because he could be a very good signing for us," added Austin.

“He’s someone to get excited about and, once again, it makes a bit of a statement.”

Booth is not cup tied for Saturday's FA Vase showdown against Kirkley and Pakefield, which is handy as Clacton will be without unavailable pair Hampson and Andrade.

The Seasiders have also signed goalkeeper Luke Banner and he is due to play at Oakley tonight.

Regular number one Joe Fowler is unavailable for the trip to the Memorial Ground.

“It’s good to have competition for places and it’ll keep Joe on his toes," said Austin.

“Joe had a really good game at Norwich last week and it was no surprise that Luke was on the sidelines watching.

“It could become a nightmare for me because I’ve got make selection choices but obviously I’m happy to have that problem.

“It shows that people want to come and play for us."

Clacton reached the final of the Tolleshunt D'Arcy Cup last season before losing 1-0 to neighbours Brightlingsea Regent.

“We see it as an important game because it’s a chance to progress in another cup competition," said the Seasiders boss.

“We got to the final last year and although we eventually lost, we certainly didn’t embarrass ourselves.”