FORMER Southend United winger Michael Kightly has come out of retirement to join BetVictor Southern Premier Central side Rushall Olympic.

Kightly hung up his boots after leaving the Shrimpers in 2019.

But the 34-year-old, who had been training with Billericay Town during pre-season, has now opted to start playing again. 

“During lockdown I’ve been thinking more and more about getting back into playing again,” Kightly told Olympic's official website.

“But it had to be at the right club; somewhere local where I could be involved in building something and just enjoy playing football.

“Coming here ticks all of those boxes; I’ve had some good conversations with the Gaffer, who is enthusiastic and really understands the game, and I feel that I can help the younger players around me in what is a good, positive environment.

“My little lad, Leo, trains and plays at Dales Lane so I’ve been over here a few times and like the set-up and the family feel of the place.

“Hopefully I can help bring some success; every player, no matter what level you play at, wants to win football matches and there is no reason why we can’t be up there challenging during the season ahead.

“I’ve played in non-League before earlier in my career so I know what it’s all about and I just can’t wait to get started.