BASILDON United manager Colin Cook has drafted in new signings after an experienced trio left the club.

Defender George Whitby (formerly of Bowers & Pitsea), striker Ellis Skidmore (formerly of Canvey Island Reserves) and goalkeeper Russell Harley (a former Bees keeper) joined up with Cook’s side last night and all featured against Ilford, in last night's 2-2 draw.

Cook has also added former Concord Rangers and Chelmsford City midfielder Taylor Sinfield to their squad, a signing manager Colin Cook described as ‘tremendous’.

Cook took the emergency measures after the late departures of Steve Brown, Terry Martin and Dave Reynolds last week, and the Bees boss said losing three senior members of his squad was a “massive blow” on the eve of the new season.

“I was left in a really difficult situation,” he said. “Under the circumstances, the defeat (1-0 to Barking) wasn’t that bad, but we want to be challenging for wins not accepting defeats.

“We are hoping to add another player in the coming days and we will be in a stronger position then.”

Basildon travel to Stanway in the FA Cup extra-preliminary round this Saturday.