Josh Payne believes he can play a part in an exciting new era at Crawley Town after becoming boss Dermot Drummy’s fourth signing of the summer.

The former West Ham midfielder agreed a two-year contract yesterday and joins wingers Enzio Boldewijn and Jason Banton plus goalkeeper Glenn Morris at the Checkatrade.com Stadium.

Payne, 25, made two substitute appearances in the Premier League for the Hammers in 2009 but has dropped down the leagues since and spent last season at Eastleigh.

He said: “I’ve played League Two before and to be back in the league is brilliant. I’m optimistic going forward because I can see the manager wants to try and play good football.

“Speaking to Dermot, he wants to play a style of football which I like and I’m really looking forward to being part of an exciting new era for the club.

“The fans can expect a creative player, I work hard and I’m passionate. I’m looking forward to showing what I can do.”

Payne left West Ham in 2010 and has also had stints at Cheltenham, Colchester, Wycombe, Doncaster, Oxford, Aldershot and Woking.

Drummy said: “He’s a combative, energetic midfielder who can also play. And from talking to him I know how keen he is to embrace a new challenge back in the Football League here at Crawley.”