Ravens Trio Become Robins

Martin Carruthers, manager of Pitching In Southern League Premier Division Central new boys Ilkeston Town, looks like he wants to do his transfer business early ahead of their new challenge.

Three more players have committed to playing for the Northern Premier League Division One Midlands champions – and all arriving from new league rivals Coalville Town.

Highly rated pacey full-back Kalern Thomas signed for Coalville in October 2018 from King’s Lynn Town.

The 28-year-old made around 70 appearances for the Ravens in that time.

He previously played for Corby Town, Loughborough Dynamo and Solihull Moors.

Carruthers told his club’s website: “We are delighted to welcome Kalern to the New Manor Ground.

“He has been much sought after by numerous teams in our league so it’s a great coup that he opted to join us.

“A pacey attacking full-back who will not only add strength and power to our backline but also excite the fans with his pace and attacking style. Welcome to the club Kalern.”

Interestingly, two goalkeepers have made the switch from the Mander Cruickshank Solicitors Stadium to the New Manor Ground.

Vastly experienced Saul Deeney helped Ilkeston get over the line as champions last season after joining on loan from Coalville.

The now 39-year-old former Republic of Ireland under-21 international had joined the Ravens from Basford United in June 2019.

He played for Notts County, where he made 42 first-team appearances, Burton Albion, for whom he appeared 55 times in two spells and Derby County, where he played 3 times in the senior side.

He returned to Notts County in 2006 and added 7 games to his tally and played for Hucknall Town before originally signing for Basford in September 2014.

He had a brief spell at Irish Premier League side Institute before re-signing for Basford in 2015.

Also making the same move is 27-year-old Tomasz Bukowski.

The Polish-born keeper signed for Coalville in 2020.

He was previously on the books at then-Midland League side Leicester Road (now known as Hinckley LR) and United Counties League Premier Division outfit Oadby Town.

Bukowski played 20 league games for the Ravens in 2021/22.