CHESTER coach Jan van Deventer has wasted no time in bolstering his squad after signing five new players.

The club’s impressive 2016/17 campaign ended just a month ago but the South African has already recruited reinforcements.

Following his side’s top-five finish in National League Two, Deventer has strengthened with some quality additions.

Outside centre Macca van Sertima has signed from Macclesfield, while fellow recruit Liam McGovern will bring a wealth of experience to the fly-half role.

McGovern, who switched codes after playing league for St Helens, joins from Sale, while centre Jack Leech moves from Sandbach.

Reflecting on his move, Leech said: “It’s an incredibly exciting opportunity to come and play at Chester on a fast surface next year.”

The influx of new faces is completed by James Robins and Matt Crow.

A powerful outside back, Crow is another to have made the transition from rugby league after five years with Wigan Warriors.

He said: “I’m really looking forward to facing the new challenges and to push my game onto the next level.”

The new arrivals will offset the loss of Will Bown to retirement and Alex Burrage to university.

Guy Ford will continue as captain next season with Freeman Payne set to take on a player-coach role.

Deventer said: “I am really pleased with how the 2016/17 season went. We played some attractive rugby and scored some excellent team tries that helped us finish in a very strong position. But with that behind us now we are all looking forward.

“The current squad have set high standards in training and matches and the new recruits will provide us with real strength and depth.”