Spalding squad shaping up nicely ahead of new Southern League Premier Central campaign

Spalding United manager Jimmy Dean has described the signing of Yusifu Ceesay as ‘a real coup for the club’, after he joined the Tulips earlier this week.

Wideman Ceesay spent last season in the National League North with Hereford.

He netted 12 times and had eight assists during a successful campaign with the Bulls.

A delighted Dean said: “I think Yusifu Ceesay needs no introduction and getting him here is a real coup for the football club.

"He's a player I've liked and kept tabs on for a couple of years now. He's a good age, having played at many high levels, and is a player who has a real impact in both boxes.

"He had two or three options, but I stayed with him and I think his signing shows that we mean business.

"There's a lot more to come from this kid as he brings so much to the table."

Ceesay began his career at Blackpool and has previously played for Altrincham, Alfreton, and Kidderminster.

The move sees him link up with close friend Lamine Sherif at the Sir Halley Stewart Field.

"I think they stayed in the same hotel together when they were playing for Accrington and Blackpool and they've been good friends since," revealed the Tulips boss.

"We've had to work hard to get him in, but their friendship has benefited me five years later."

The Tulips' chief also touched on being reunited with midfielder Josh McCammon, who arrived at the club from National League North King's Lynn Town last week.

McCammon was an integral part of Peterborough Sports' rise up the non-league pyramid under the guidance of Dean.

"I didn't think it was going to happen at one stage," admitted the Spalding boss.

"We tried to bring him in towards the end of last season but he didn't want to come at the time.

"I think Josh has matured as a player. Going out and playing under different managers has helped him.

"He can play in a couple of positions, but primarily he's a goalscoring midfielder.

"He's a fantastic player and a person and comes to Spalding hungry and looking for a little bit of success."

Dean doesn't foresee too much more summer business following the arrivals of Connor Johnson, Ben Hart, McCammon and Ceesay.

"There might be one or two more before the season starts but that'll be about it," he said.

"It has been difficult, as some clubs are going crazy. Yes, we have had knockbacks but we've got the players and strengthened the squad where we wanted to.

"My chairman has backed me, he's been fantastic, and we're going to have the bit between our teeth this year."