Former Sutton United midfielder Anthony Riviere said he accepted a move to Margate on the promise of a new challenge.

The 34-year-old followed Jamie Stuart, Sam Rents and Dean McDonald out the Gander Green Lane door over Christmas to join the Kent-based Ryman Premier League outfit.

Riviere made more than 130 appearances for United, including the ultimately doomed play-offs against Welling United in 2012, so he left with a heavy heart.

United manager Paul Doswell has rung the changes in his squad, replacing the departing quartet with a mixture of young and old loan players, for a Skrill South promotion push.

Meanwhile, Riviere will be hoping to guide Margate to only their second win in eight games.

“I am sad to leave the people at Sutton United, but I am ready for a new chapter in my career,” he said.

“I normally spend a good length on time at clubs, I was at Eastleigh for four years before joining Sutton three seasons ago.

“When Margate got in touch, Dos told me I was clear to talk to them. When I did, and discovered what their plans are, it seemed really positive and a challenge, so I decided it was time to start something new.”

He added: “With a few of the Sutton lads at Margate, stepping into the changing room and seeing a few faces that I already knew, meant I was comfortable straight away.

“Jamie [Stuart] told me just how good a manager Terry Brown is, and after speaking to him, I knew I had made the right decision.

“He and his assistant manager have the experience and the know-how to succeed in football.”

In his 331 appearances for United, Riviere scored seven goals, and while he enjoyed his time at the Lane, there is an overall sense of disappointment at not achieving more success.

“I am disappointed not to win the league or get promoted with Sutton – that was always Doswell’s aim,” he said.

“He’s a winner and always wants to win things so there is a little sense of disappointment at not achieving that.”

He added: “Making the play-offs was the pinnacle on the pitch, but off it, the highlight has to be all the people I have met.”

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FA Cup: Anthony Riviere in action at Kidderminster Harriers earlier in the season   Picture: Paul Loughlin