New Walton & Hersham player-coach Matt Elverson has revealed it only took a call from boss Jimmy Bolton to come out of semi-retirement and help his home-town club launch a bid for promotion.

The 34-year-old played four games for the much-troubled Swans in Ryman League Division One South last season having quit Hampton & Richmond Borough with the intention of taking a year away from the game.

Bolton, who took over from Les Cleevley in May, named defender Elverson as one of seven new signings to arrive at Stompond Lane earlier this month.

And the former Kingstonian centre-back, who has enjoyed two spells with the Swans during a long non-league career, is hoping he can bring some stability to a club that has had three managers in the last two seasons.

"I did pre-season at Hampton, but didn't really fancy it and only played for Walton after Jimmy asked me down," he said.

"It didn't work out how I had hoped. It certainly felt like last year would by my last. I was flattered to be offered the role and I'm looking forward to a new challenge.

"I feel I can still contribute as a player and hopefully this can see me move into management further down the line.

"There has been too many managers at Walton but we have got to do our jobs properly to achieve that.

"There is always optimism at the start of a new season and a new manager's reign, but it is time we let the football do the talking."

Elverson started his non-league career with the Swans and returns having enjoyed three years at Hampton & Richmond Borough under Alan Devonshire.

He played a key role in the Beavers' Ryman League Premier Division winning side of 2007 and is confident he can bring some of that winning mentality to his latest spell with the club.

"I haven't got a huge amount of direct coaching experience, but as you become a more senior player you take on more responsibilities," he added.

"I had those three amazing years at Hampton and would like to think I've picked up a thing or two I can pass on from Dev and my other managers.

"The game has changed around with sides moving from being a group of senior players with a few youngsters; to young, fit teams with some experienced heads.

"I'm pleased we've managed to hold on to the good players from last year. There is a bit of stability there and gives us a chance to build on something."