The Hawks yesterday received international clearance for former Senegal centre-half Sonko, and he will be available for selection to play in the Ryman North opener at home to Cheshunt tomorrow (Saturday).

Sonko, 34, made headlines in 2006 when he declined a call-up to the Senegal Africa Cup of Nations squad to help Reading in their ultimately successful bid for promotion to the Premier League.

He did actually play in the African tournament two years later.
He made 127 appearances for the Royals between 2004 and 2008.

Sonko later played for Stoke City and Ipswich between loan spells at Hull and Portsmouth.

In 2012 he switched to Turkish club Akhisar Belediyespor, remaining there for three years and has just returned and has agreed to play for Harlow.

Hawks manager Danny Chapman enthused: "It's a proper back four now. It's the strongest I've had. Sonko did very well. It's great to see him in a one-on-one situation.

"He is exactly what we need. He is fit as they come.

"He could still play in the Football League as far as I am concerned. I wouldn't be surprised if he plays somewhere a lot higher before his career is over.

"Hopefully we can keep him as long as we can."

We would like to welcome Ibrahima to The Harlow Arena and wish him a successful time at the club.