Sutton United boss Paul Doswell has further strengthened his front line ahead of this weekend’s big National League kick-off.

United open their campaign when Solihull Moors, who won National League North last season, make the trip to Gander Green Lane.

Last week, Doswell recruited former Charlton Athletic striker Chris Dickson ahead of the pre-season clash with Ebbsfleet.

His arrival almost spelt the end for French triallist Maxime Biamou – who scored in the defeat to Hampton & Richmond.

However, Doswell now has both players signed up to one-year deals.

“Craig [McAllister] is still out with a thigh strain, so we had to act,” Doswell said.

“We were always looking to bring one more striker in, whether that be Alex Wall or someone else.

“We were trialling a French lad called Maxime [Biamou], and we really liked him and we were close to offering him a deal.

“Then an old mate of mine – Steve Watts – called to tell me Chris Dickson has come back from Cyprus, and I know Dicko very well from his early days, so we had him in for training.

“He probably expected, like Ryan [Burge] and Nicky [Bailey], to be picked up by a Swindon or a Colchester, but it did not happen.

“He was convinced to come to us, show his worth, and if a League club wants to take him they can.”

He added: “I had to tell Maxime after Saturday’s game that it was unlikely that we could take him on, but I spoke to Bruce [Elliott] put my case forward that he was a very good player and could do well with us, and Bruce was happy to take a punt.”

United will be without the suspended Kevin Amankwaah, while Dan Spence (groin) is a doubt.

After the excitement of the opening day fixture, United go to Forest Green Rovers (Tuesday) and Lincoln City (August 13).

Doswell said: “The season has finally arrived, and we’re really excited and looking forward to it.

“It’s the Conference North champions against Conference South champions, so there is an interesting connotation there.”

He added: “Then the week carries on with Forest Green away, they were second last year, and then Lincoln City, who have had a big input with Danny Cowley as manager – so it’s a tough start, but that is what we’re in it for.”

United's final pre-season friendly is against Tonbridge Angels at Gander Green Lane tonight.