James Ball believes he can return to the Football League with Ebbsfleet after an unhappy year at Stevenage.

The former Stockport midfielder got his move into the professional game last summer when Boro paid a five-figure fee to sign him.

Ball scored two goals in his first three games but only started 11 matches in League 2 and didn’t feature after February.

He said: “Stevenage didn’t work out for numerous reasons.

“It started well but I didn’t see eye to eye with certain people and that was that from Christmas onwards.

“I had to get away to start playing again and I see this as a good place to do it.

“It was just picking the right club but it wasn’t made easy by Stevenage. Eventually we came to an agreement with Ebbsfleet.

“It was quite quick really. I got a call from the gaffer and everything was done two days later.

• Fleet swoop for striker

“He told me what his plans were, said the club were going for it this year and they want to get promoted and I want to be part of a club that’s going places.

“I’m looking forward to showing people what I can do. I know I’m good enough to be back in the League.”

Ball brings mobility and athleticism to Ebbsfleet’s midfield, not to mention a keen eye for goal.

“I’m big and I’ve got long legs so I find it easy covering the ground,” he said.

“The National League isn’t always pretty and all some teams will do is fight for second balls and set plays.

“It’s a new bunch here and it does take a while to gel but we’re getting there. They’re all good guys and I feel like I’ve settled in quick.”

Read more: All the latest sports news in Kent