Peter Hawkins has ended an 18-month spell out of the game after joining Chatham Town as assistant manager.

The former Wimbledon defender will be stepping into a management role for the first time after a knee injury ended his playing career.

Hawkins, who helped Ebbsfleet win the FA Trophy at Wembley in 2008, suffered a double fracture and four tears in his knee during pre-season last summer.

After obtaining his UEFA B coaching licence, he is now looking forward to helping Chats manager Kevin Watson push the club on.

Hawkins, 35, said: “After 18 months out of the game, I was itching to get back. When you’ve played football all your life, it’s in your blood.

“I have played at a high standard and have also had a few seasons in local non-league. I know the lower you go the harder it can get. This is a good challenge for me and I’m looking forward to it.”

Hawkins played more than 100 games for Wimbledon, appearing for them in England’s second tier alongside the likes of Jason Euell, John Hartson and Marcus Gayle. Spells at York, Rushden and Ebbsfleet followed, before stints at hometown club Maidstone, Tonbridge and Whitstable.

Chats have re-signed striker Alfie May from Conference South Bromley.