STRIKER Jamie Matthews and midfielder Stuart McNaught are the latest editions to Darren Byfield’s new-look Redditch United squad.

Matthews had a spell at Hednesford Town last season, scoring for the Pitmen against the Reds in the Birmingham Senior Cup. He includes FC United, Nuneaton Town, Colwyn Bay and Latvian side Daugavpils among his other clubs.

The powerful 24-year-old can also play out wide and hit the headlines when, as a teenager, he reached the final stages of Sky TV’s Football’s Next Star before injury robbed him of the chance to turn out for Jose Mourinho’s Inter Milan.

“All I want at the moment is some stability and to play for a club where I’m rated,” Matthews said. “I’m looking forward to playing for Redditch on the 3G – it’s the best surface and suits my playing style. Defenders are going to have a nightmare playing against me out there.”

McNaught was a Hednesford Town favourite last season and also played at Sutton Coldfield Town, Boldmere St Michaels and helped Stafford Rangers to their Evo Stik North Division One title in 2016.

And the 30-year-old admits his game has changed a little over the years.

“A few years back I was probably a box-to-box midfielder but for the last couple of seasons I’ve played more of a sitting role, getting on the ball and passing it around,” he explained. “I’m not afraid to put my foot in when needed.

“I’ve spoken to Darren a few times and he’s sold the club to me. I can’t wait to get started now.”

The Reds return to training on Saturday, June 24, with the first friendly away at Coleshill Town on July 1.