Former Charlton stalwart Chris Solly signs for Ebbsfleet United

Former Charlton defender Chris Solly has registered as a player for Ebbsfleet United.

The 29-year-old right-back has started training with the National League side at the start of this week.

And Solly is looking to maintain match fitness levels ahead of the January transfer window.

Ebbsfleet manager Dennis Kutrieb said: “We are really pleased to have Chris train with us and register to play. During this difficult summer market for so many players and clubs, we have had many approaches from players who wish to train and keep fit but we are a tight group and to bring in players on these terms, they need to be the right character and right example.

“Chris has been absolutely professional in his approach and honesty, he is a quality footballer from higher up the pyramid and we respect his willingness to be fit and ready should his next opportunity present itself.

“His commitment to Ebbsfleet United to be available and assist when needed is a great example for any player.”

Solly told the club’s website: “I’ve been training on my own now for a fair few months and with my best mate but there’s only so long you can do that. I came down on Monday morning and settled in really well and all the lads were really welcoming, they’re a great set of boys.

“I’ve been running four or five times a week and felt I was in reasonably good shape. And then we came in Monday and did 11 v 11 and I felt miles off it for the first 15 minutes. I’ve found my feet this week. We had two tough sessions on Monday, Tuesday, and then training again yesterday. We had a little bit of an easier session today with planning [for the game] tomorrow.

“There’s a lot of players who have played at higher levels or I’m sure will go on to play at a higher level. And I have no reason to doubt, even from this four or five days of training, that the boys will be right up there fighting for promotion this season.

“It’s nice to be involved in a big group and the camaraderie with the lads has been brilliant. And then that feeling on a Thursday, when you can tell that a lot of the lads are focusing on the game on a Saturday and thinking about how they’re going to get the three points on Saturday and winning the three points, that’s what I’ve missed the most and can’t wait to get involved in doing that.

“I’ve played most of my career at right-back but I’ve had games at left-back as well, centre-mid. I’d like to think I bring a bit of composure, quality on the ball. I’ve played a fair few games now so I have a good understanding of the game and hopefully I’ll be able to get back out on the pitch soon and get back playing.”