I’m really chuffed we have kept the majority of last season’s squad together, as when everyone is fit, we’ve got a good one, says Folkestone Invicta boss Neil Cugley

FOLKESTONE INVICTA manager Neil Cugley has retained the services of midfielder Kieron McCann.

“I’m delighted that Kieron has signed and would mention that the delay was only due to us managing to get together to talk as he has recently been representing England overseas,” Cugley told www.folkestoneinvictafc.co.uk.

“He is looking forward to the forthcoming season and on his own admission, he would like to score a few more goals.”

Ira Jackson is due to report back for pre-season training when the Isthmian Premier Division side return on Saturday 29 June 2019.

“Ira has confirmed he’ll sign when he comes to pre-season training and so I’ll be shocked if he isn’t part of the squad next season,” said Cugley.

“He said he wanted to stay, which is obviously pleasing for me and a boost to the side.”

Folkestone Invicta have lost the services of striker Ade Yusuff, who has signed for Vanarama National League South side Dulwich Hamlet; reserve team goalkeeper Nick Shaw, who is taking a break from the game; and last season’s under 18 campaign, Ethan Madden, who has gone to university.

The club have confirmed that last season’s regular squad has now all signed up.

“I’m really chuffed we have kept the majority of last season’s squad together, as when everyone is fit, we’ve got a good one,” said Cugley.

“I’m hoping to perhaps add one or two more to give a squad of 16 or 17 and during pre-season training and games there will probably be a couple of players to be looked at, so the supporters may see some new faces.

“There are a lot of clubs within Kent now, so there is more competition to sign players and the way the M20 is at the moment is a bit of a challenge, and in fact last weekend a player, who I thought was going to sign, turned me down due to the travelling”.

Folkestone Invicta kick-off their pre-season campaign against their Vanarama National League neighbours Dover Athletic, who visit Cheriton Road on Saturday 6 July 2019 (15:00).

Visit Folkestone Invicta’s website: www.folkestoneinvictafc.co.uk