Cup hero Ranger signs new Kettering contract

Former Premier League striker Nile Ranger has signed a contract with Kettering Town to run until next summer, with an option for a further 12 months.

Ranger headed the winning goal when the Poppies upset League One neighbours Northampton Town 2-1 last weekend to reach round two of the FA Cup.

The 33-year-old joined the Southern League Premier Central club in September, having been out of the game since January 2023.

He has scored seven goals since then and will be hoping to add more when they take on Doncaster Rovers of League Two in another televised tie on 1 December.

“Since Nile joined the club, he has been a consummate professional and has made a significant contribution to the club’s success both on and off the pitch," Kettering owner George Akhtar said.

Top-of-the-table Kettering return to league action on Saturday with a home game against Redditch United before making the trip to AFC Telford on Tuesday.

Ranger played in the top flight for Newcastle United at the start of his career before moving on to Swindon Town, Blackpool and Southend United.

His time with the Shrimpers ended in December 2021 because of "reoccurring disciplinary issues".