BILLY Knott says he is determined to get back to enjoying his football after making a shock move to Concord Rangers.

The former Bradford City, Gillingham and Lincoln City midfielder completed a short-term move to the Beach Boys this week.

Canvey-based Knott, who came through the youth system at Concord, says he declined the interest of a number of professional clubs, including several in League Two.

And he is now excited to get going as part of Sammy Moore and Jack Midson’s new look squad.

“I know Moore and [Jack] Midson from playing with them at AFC Wimbledon and when [Jack] Parkinson went there as coach I really started thinking about it,” said the 25-year-old.

“There were league clubs still interested and I had to hear the offers as I still know I am capable of playing in the Football League.

“My dad and I met a few League clubs and weighed up the options as it would have meant moving away.

“There were pros and cons and none were local and I need to be around people I can trust.

“But, in light of everything, we thought trying to make it work with Concord might be a better option.

“It is a short-term deal. I just want to enjoy football again.”

Knott is referring to his battle with alcoholism and depression, issues he is treating with the help of the Professional Footballers’ Association.

He told the Echo last month about the important role his family was playing in his recovery.

And Knott thanked chairman Antony Smith and the club for their help in making the deal happen.

“Dad met Ant to talk about it all as they are old friends,” said Knott.

“I don’t think Ant thought it was possible but they understood my situation. The chairman wants to help me personally too.

“I am not tied down at Concord, he just wants to help me.”

Knott has agreed a deal until January, at which point he will sit down with the club and assess his options.

But he admits he is hugely excited to get started in the National League South, after Concord signed a host of talented players in the off-season following the arrival of Moore.

“The aim is to finish as high as we can this season and there is no reason we can’t have a really good year,” said the former England Under-20 international.

“People will expect a lot from us after the work Moore and Midson have done since joining. The club finished just above relegation zone last year but we need a top half finish at least with this group.

“We have made big signings but people mustn’t forget it takes time to gel. There must be about 12 new boys here and it takes time to bond and it will take the manager time to put his own stamp on the team.”

Another battle Knott is looking forward to next year is against his brother.

Sammy has agreed to stay at East Thurrock United next year after overcoming several long-term injuries.

And it is a battle Billy is looking forward to after working hard to get fit since an injury of his own.

“I am enjoying getting fit and I feel strong,” he said. “Sammy and I are pushing each other. He is at East Thurrock at the moment and I can’t wait to play against him next season.

“I know I need to be as fit as I can as it is a tough league. You need to be fit and I want to give myself every chance.”