French striker wanted too much money, reveals Hessenthaler

Dover Athletic player-boss Andy Hessenthaler has said that he will not be signing striker Hamdi Razak, writes Justin Allen.

Hessenthaler told www.doverathletic.com that he could not agree personal terms with the talented, big Frenchman.

He said: "I loved the kid. He had talent and we were going to give an unproven player an opportunity in England.

"But sadly he wasn't realistic with the type of money he wanted. He was coming here for the money and that's not the type of player I want to sign at Dover Athletic. So we've washed our hands of that one and we move on."

Hessenthaler stated that the club's playing budget for the coming season had virtually been spent.

But he said: "We're always on the lookout for player who can improve our squad but we're pretty much nearly there now."

Jon Wallis netted for Whites in a 1-1 draw with Maidstone last night at the SeaFrance Stadium - and Hessenthaler said: "We were excellent. Alan Walker told me we were the best side Maidstone have played for three years. We opened them up time and again.

"Obviously, I'm concerned we didn't put away our chances. But that will come. When it does, someone is going to be on the end of a good hiding."

Ealier in the week, Hessenthaler heaped praise on the way Liam Quinn has adapted to his new central defensive role.

Quinn, who previously has preferred to play in midfield, has slotted alongside Craig Cloke at the back - and caught the eye of his new boss.

Hessenthaler said: "Liam has been one of the big finds of the summer for me. We’ve been looking to sign a centre-half but Liam has slotted in there nicely - and I believe he’s only going to get better.

"Why spend money on bringing someone in when we’ve got some young talent in Liam Quinn coming through the ranks?

"He knew his chances of getting a first-team place in midfield were limited this season - but he’s proved to me that he can forge a good partnership with Clokey.

"Also we’ve got Matt Bourne back now and I’m happy with our defence. The full-backs have been superb too. All in all, without injuries biting into the squad, our defence is more than up to the task.

"My main concern at the moment is not taking chances that we’re creating up front. We’re going to be working on that because once the three forwards click, we’re going to have some excellent options."

Article courtesy of Justin Allen – www.doverathletic.com