Dartford boss Tony Burman releases four players following their top-eight finish

DARTFORD manager Tony Burman has lost four players from his squad that finished as the highest-ranked part-time club in the Conference Premier.



The Darts sealed promotion back in the top flight of non-league football after finishing as runners-up and joined champions Woking after beating Basingstoke Town and Welling United in the play-off’s last season.

Burman led the club to a respectable eighth-placed finish on 66 points, one place and a point behind giants Luton Town and they reached the semi-finals of The FA Carlsberg Trophy, but they lost to Grimsby Town, who have reacted to their failed promotion bid by releasing eight players.

Burman told the club’s official website that he has released former Bromley and Gillngham target-man Jacob Erskine and goalkeeper Louis Wells and two players have accepted offers from full-time clubs.

He said: “It’s that time of the year when we have to make decisions and firstly I would like to inform you that having spoken to all of the players in the last couple of weeks, we have released Jacob Erskine and Louis Wells from our squad.

“We would like to thank both Jacob and Louis for all of their effort and commitment whilst at Dartford FC and wish them all the very best for the future.”

Burman added: “Despite making offers to Tom Bonner and Tom Champion, they have advised that they will both be accepting full-time offers from other clubs.

“Whilst naturally disappointed that they wish to move on, I want to place on record my sincere thanks to them both for the part they have played in our rise to the Football Conference and I am sure everyone at the club will join me in wishing them the best of luck for the future.”

Meanwhile, four players have put pen to paper on new contracts for next season.

“On a happier note, I am pleased to advise that Danny Harris, Ryan Hayes, Lee Burns and Lee Noble have all put pen to paper and signed new contracts for next season,” revealed Burman.

“All the remaining players have been spoken to and to date I am awaiting their decisions.”

There will be two Kent sides again in the Conference Premier next season. Conference South champions Welling United will replace relegated Ebbsfleet United.

There will be a third if Dover Athletic clinch promotion via the play-offs.

Visit Dartford’s website: www.dartfordfconline.com