MARTIN Tuohy says he has a point to prove after signing for Canvey Island ahead of the new season.

The 30-year-old striker has left AFC Hornchurch to link up with the Gulls, having endured an up-and-down spell with his previous club.

Having won promotion and the Ryman Premier League Golden Boot in 2012/13 (with 31 goals), he suffered a number of injuries in Hornchurch’s Conference South campaign in which they were subsequently relegated.

The Urchins suffered successive relegations at the end of last term and Tuohy has now left in search of a fresh challenge at the Prospects Stadium.

“I think I do have a point to prove this year,” said the striker who scored 79 goals in 201 appearances for the Urchins. “I’ve really struggled with injuries and suffered a medial ligament in the past couple of years which really set me back.

“I had a few little injuries last year as well and I really want to start on a fresh slate at Canvey.

“I knew Danny (Heale) and John (Batch – chairman) were interested and they are people I respect. It is an exciting time to be a part of the club and I want to help them achieve success.

“I am sad to be leaving Hornchurch as five years is a long time and they are a great group of boys but I feel I need a new challenge.”

Tuohy also had interest from Ryman Premier League side Enfield Town and he said he is aiming to score more than 20 goals in his first season for the Gulls.

He became the sixth summer signing after the additions of goalkeeper Jake Larkins, defenders Richard Halle and Steve Sheehan and midfielders Glenn Poole and Tambeson Eyong.

“I want to keep fit and, with some good service, I think I will be able to contribute well,” he said. “The likes of Glen (Poole), Tambeson (Eyong) and Richard Halle I have come across before and they are all good players and I think we will work well together.”