Hampton & Richmond-bound striker Nana Badu says the lure of life in the Blue Square South was the prime factor in his move from Walton Casuals.

Hotshot Badu was chased by a host of clubs after impressing with 15 goals to help the Stags avoid relegation from the Ryman Division One South.

The 24-year-old admitted the likes of Kingstonian and Metropolitan Police were among his courters.

Badu said: "I was quite close to signing for Kingstonian and the Met.

"But then Hampton came in for me and that is much more of a challenge.

"I spent time at Maidenhead last year but I wasn't at my best, so I reckon I owe something to the Conference South."

Badu has played for numerous clubs since rebuilding his career after a major knee operation.

And he is aware there will always be a level of concern over his long-term fitness.

Badu added: "I dropped down a league to play for Walton so as not to put so much pressure on my knee.

"I have not really tested it to the max yet. But I am confident things will be fine."

The striker is itching to prove himself on the pitch and help the Beavers go one better than last season, when they lost the play-off final.

Badu said: "I spoke to Alan Devonshire and he seems a great manager.

"I can't wait to get started.

"He knows about my injury but he believes if he gets me fully fit, I will be hard to play against."