New Brighton Rugby Club announce signing of Matthew Van Sertima

Just days after ambitious plans to steer the famous Wirral club back into the big time were revealed Matthew Van Sertima has become the first player to join what is planned to be a long-term and expansive project.

Matthew Van Sertima, 28, is a much-coveted player with a wealth of experience at both international and club level for someone so young.

He made a positive impression at several clubs including Caldy, Wharfedale, Macclesfield and Chester, played four seasons in National League One, six seasons in League Two and was in the Sale Sharks Academy U16-U18. Matthew represented England U18’s.

" I really am thrilled to be joining New Brighton, " he said. "It is such a famous name in rugby union and whilst the Club has struggled over the past few years those behind what I suppose you could call the 'revival project' have talked with such enthusiasm about their plans. I am happy to be onboard and can’t wait to get started and play my part."

The man behind the proposed revival of New Brighton, former international player Alastair Saverimutto, regards the signing of Van Sertima as a real coup.

" Hopefully Matthew will be the first of many top-class players to join the Club in the months and years ahead," he said. " Obviously, everyone connected with the Club will have to be patient but I see this as very much the first brick in the wall. More top signings will be announced shortly. I think we are now on our way."

Saverimutto has set-out a ten-year plan which, if successful, would see New Brighton again competing at the highest level.

“Player development both on and off the field with player speed, power, strength and fitness will underpin the club’s future successes, " he added.

" I am a really big fan of Liverpool Football Club, " added Sertima. " If all goes well Jurgen Klopp's team will win everything in sight this season and New Brighton will start to climb back up through the leagues. Well, that how I see it in my dreams. "