BILLERICAY Town have completed the sensational signing of former England international and Premier League defender Paul Konchesky.

The 35-year-old has linked up with the Ryman Premier League outfit from League One side Gillingham.

The signing of the Europa League runner-up and FA Cup finalist is the latest signal of intent from owner Glenn Tamplin, after the Echo revealed the move was imminent earlier this week.

And Tamplin says it proves he is serious when he says he wants to get the New Lodge outfit into the Football League.

“It is a massive statement of intent,” he said. “I won’t rest until we get into League Two. I want to be in the Football League.

“I think Paul can help us get to where we want to be. He feels, and I agree, that he has two years left in terms of playing.

“But he has already said he wants to stay involved with the club as he looks to get his coaching badges.”

While Konchesky brings an abundance of professional experience to the dressing room, Tamplin added that the former West Ham United player was not bigger than the team manager Craig Edwards has built.

“No-one player is bigger than the team or this club,” said Tamplin. “But it shows how serious I am and I want it to give the players the confidence to play with someone of this stature.”

Konchesky is expected to make his debut for Billericay at Harlow Town on Saturday.