Fleet Add Experienced Defender Gareth Gwillim

EXPERIENCED Non-League left-back Gareth Gwillim has joined Ebbsfleet United from Sutton United.

The 30-year-old began his career as a junior at Crystal Palace but left Selhurst Park in 2000 and dropped into the Non-League game to sign for Farnborough Town.

He subsequently went on to play for Ashford Town, Bishop’s Stortford and Histon, making over 100 appearances for both the Bishops and the Stutes.

Gwillim returned to the Football League with Dagenham & Redbridge in 2010 but failed to make an impact with them and joined AFC Wimbledon midway through the 2010/11 campaign.

He was part of the Dons’ play-off winning side and signed a permanently deal at Kingsmeadow following their promotion.

After making 27 appearances for them in League Two last term Gwillim dropped back down into the Conference to join Sutton, for whom he has started 17 games this season.

Speaking about Gwillim’s arrival, Fleet boss Liam Daish told the club’s website: “We need to strengthen the side if we are to pull away from the bottom of the table.

“We have been playing well but not getting the rewards our performances have warranted. Gareth will bring considerable experience to the side and I am sure he will make his presence felt.”

Meanwhile, Jay Folkes has left Stonebridge Road by mutual consent.

The former Hayes & Yeading United midfielder had only made seven appearances for Ebbsfleet since arriving in the summer of 2012.