Kent Football United boss Ennio Gonnella: Our target is promotion, but just like anything in life, hard work is the key

KENT FOOTBALL UNITED manager Ennnio Gonnella says his side must work hard if they are to win promotion next April.

The club opened their pre-season campaign with a 2-2 draw against an Ashford United under 21 side on 17 June and play Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division side Croydon on Saturday.

“Approaching Saturday’s game we have been in three times over the last two weeks but the main squad are back together for the first time tonight, so our pre-season started tonight really,” said Gonnella.

“Saturday’s game against Croydon will no doubt be a test.  We are wanting to see everyone working hard and showing their qualities.

“There will still be trialists, youth and players we have invited down but a smaller number in and around the main lads from last year.

“By next weekend we will have smaller numbers at training and closer to the squad we will be working on for the tough season ahead.”

Gonnella revealed that he has signed winger Taser Hassan, who played for FC Elmstead and Herne Bay last season.

“Tas has a lot of qualities and a very talented player, he will be a great addition,” added the manager.

“Nicky Hunt joins us from Sheppey, he’s a very experienced and hard-working, honest player.”

Tom Pratt has signed for the club from their Southern Counties East Football League First Division rivals FC Elmstead.

“Tom is a lad I’ve known since he was 14 years old. He is also a great talent and will fit to the way we play,” added Gonnella.

“Also joining us is Alim Sesay, who was with us at under 18 level for Dulwich Hamlet and also made the first team under Gavin Rose.

“Alim is a very solid player and gifted on the ball. I’m very much looking forward to working with these guys and excited to what they will bring to the team this year.  There will be more coming in soon.”

Marcus Cassius, Marlon Patterson, Dean Carpenter, Antonio Gonnella, Ahmed Deen, Jordan Anderson, Mark Allen, Gerry Gonnella, Aaron Dalhouse and Chris Hubbard have all been retained.

“These boys are the ones we were desperate to keep with us,” said Gonnella.

“They have so much quality and they have also learnt a lot about the level. Without naming any names there are a few more from last year we are in talks with, once a confirmed outcome has been agreed, I will announce.”

Kent Football United finished in a personal best of fourth-place in the Southern Counties East Football League First Division last season and Gonnella has set the tone for the season ahead.

“Our target is promotion, but just like anything in life, hard work is the key," said Gonnella.

“Last season hard work beat talent and that can happen at any level. We have learnt mainly from mistakes last season. The management team and I know the end result will be based on the togetherness of a squad and hard work for each other.

“Talent is there but last year playing games in first gear and getting away with it, will not be happening this year.”

Kent Football United  v  Croydon
Pre-Season Friendly
Saturday 1 July 2017
Kick Off 3:00pm
at St Paul’s Academy, Finchale Road, Abbey Wood, London SE2 9PX