Chesham United manager Andy Leese has added two new defenders to his squad with the acquisitions of Mat Mitchel-King and Benji Crilley.

The signings come as the Generals continue their preparations for the new season which they start away at Redditch United on Saturday, August 6.

Leese is delighted to have secured the pair and feels the squad is shaping up well ahead of next season.

“We are pleased to have agreed terms this week to add two more players to the squad,” he said.

“The squad has looked in great shape in pre-season and responded really well to the work we want from them.”

Mitchell-King, 32, arrives at the Meadow after spending last season with both Hemel and St Neots and adds a wealth of experience to the Chesham ranks.

He has spent time at various football league clubs and Leese feels he will have an impact at the heart of the Generals’ defence.

“Mat was part of the Histon team which enjoyed success coming through the pyramid a few years ago, and that earned him moves in the Football League with Crewe and AFC Wimbledon,” he said.

“Mat is a leader and will bring some great experience on the pitch. He can play in midfield but has been signed primarily as a centre-back.”

At 19 Crilley is very much at the other end of his footballing career and offers versatility in defence as well as potential to develop.

“Benji played at Ware last season and has developed into an excellent young prospect,” Leese explained.

“He can play anywhere across the backline, but we see him potentially filling a full-back berth.

“I am really pleased to get both these deals done as it brings experience and energy to the squad.

“We are still assessing a couple of trialists and talking to other players who have come available this week.”