'He has all the talent in the world' – ex-Newcastle United badboy given the chance to resurrect career in non-league

Ranger signed on the dotted line with the Northern Premier League South East side this week, having dropped out the game in January 2018.

And former Peterborough United defender Gabriel Zakuani, head coach at Spalding, thinks ex-Magpies man Ranger, whose career has been blighted with controversy, can turn over a new leaf in the East Midlands.

"I've known Nile for many years and we grew up in the same area,” said Zakuani.

"He has all the talent in the world and knows he has a point to prove. In the conversations we have had, he wants an opportunity to get himself back on the map.

"I believe he can easily play for any team in League One and most Championship clubs.

"He has promised me he will get his head down and prove to everyone that the penny has dropped. This opportunity will allow people to see he still has the hunger to succeed."

Ranger, 29, last saw Football League action while on the books of Southend United, where he played 45 times, scoring nine goals.

Ranger first broke on the scene at Newcastle United in 2009, where he stayed until 2013. During that period he had loan spells with Barnsley and Sheffield Wednesday.

After his release by the Magpies, Ranger turned out for Swindon Town between 2013 and 2014 before heading to Blackpool then Southend.