Diss Town striker Ryan Gibbs dropped down a level to play alongside his younger brother

When Ryan Gibbs signed for Diss Town in the summer, it was a move that will have almost certainly raised a few eyebrows.

After all, the 22-year-old had never played any lower than Step 5, and counts the likes of Cambridge City, Needham Market and Bury Town among his list of former clubs.

But having experienced life at a higher level, forward Gibbs was keen to play alongside his younger brother Jordan, who has also linked up with the Tangerines.

It has been a long held ambition of the brothers, who saw their sibling Liam make the switch from Ipswich Town to rivals Norwich City in July.

“Jordan has made the move into adult football and we always said that it would be good to play in the same team,” said Gibbs, who is the Thurlow Nunn League First Division North’s second highest scorer this term with six goals.

“Growing up all three of us said we’d like to do that but obviously Liam is doing really well and gone so high.

“We’re going to watch Liam and support him when we can, and now me and Jordan are doing what we’ve spoken about over the years.

“I’ve played at a higher level and there were times when I didn’t enjoy it for whatever reason, so this is what I want to do now.

“It’s going to be tough for Jordan because this is still a decent standard and he’s only 17, but he’s doing well and training hard.

“Hopefully as the season goes on he’ll be able to establish himself more.”

Saturday’s 2-1 home derby defeat to Harleston Town has left Diss fifth in the table, six points off the top.

However, with the champions being promoted and the next four teams entering into a play-off, Gibbs is hopeful his side can challenge for a return to the Premier Division.

He said: “The squad is good. I’ve been around the Thurlow Nunn Premier Division and this is a level down, but there isn’t too much difference from what I’ve seen so far.

“With there being play-offs this year I’d like to think we’d be able to finish in the top five.

“With the players we have the aim has got to be to challenge for it.”

Meanwhile, Diss’ search for a new manager following the departure of Michael King is still ongoing.

Senior players Conor Nicolle, Owen French and Matthew Wilson look set to remain in charge for tomorrow’s trip to Downham Town (3pm).