Striker Lorne keen to make a name for himself at Kettering

Lorne Bickley is a player who, by his own admission, is looking to make a name for himself in England.

The 22-year-old striker was unveiled as one of Kettering Town’s first summer signings at the weekend.

Born on Jersey, Bickley spent four years playing in America, where he was prolific in front of goal for Wilmington University in Delaware and in his last year he broke a long-standing scoring record when he fired over 20 goals during their Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference campaign.

On his return, he signed for Jersey Bulls before being offered an opportunity at Hartlepool United in the National League in March.

The Covid-19 pandemic cut that chance short and, with his contract up, Bickley now finds himself at the Poppies with manager Paul Cox clearly having a big impact on his decision to head to Latimer Park.

And Bickley is determined to make an impact.

“I have been around the place a couple of weeks now and spoken to the manager regularly and I am just excited get going,” the young frontman said.

“He has been top class since I have come in, he has really taken me under his wing and that’s what I need having been out in America and now trying to make my name in this football system.

“I am just keen to get going and do what I can for the team.

“It wasn’t the best of situations with Hartlepool but you can’t dwell on it. I have to look forward now. Hartlepool is in the past and I am at Kettering now.

“Everywhere I have been, without blowing my own trumpet, I have scored goals.

“That’s what the gaffer wants from me here. I want to play and help the fans believe in us so we can get moving up the table. I am really excited for the season.”