Players don't sign at this time of the year, says Walker

Fans throughout the county may be a bit concerned with the lack of transfer activity, but as Alan Walker, the joint-manager of Ryman League newcomers Maidstone United explains, players like to enjoy the summer months – and the World Cup – before deciding on their futures, writes Stephen McCartney.

 

A few Kent clubs, Gravesend & Northfleet, Margate and Ramsgate have been active in the transfer market, but most clubs have been tying up existing players on new contracts and waiting for the start of pre-season training before they unveil their new signings.

One deal made over the weekend was Maidstone United’s big central defender Ryan Royston, whose been snapped up by promotion chasing Kent League side, Thamesmead Town.
 
Work commitments meant the player was unable to continue with the Stones for the coming season.

Having recently been promoted in his job as a teacher, more out of hours working meant he would have been unable to guarantee his availability for the increasing number of midweek games for the club next season.

Speaking about his departure Walker told www.maidstoneunited.co.uk: " Ryan was a great player for us having moved down from a higher level to play for Maidstone.

”Sadly his time was marred by injury and I don't think he ever really got back his form after his injury, but nevertheless played a huge part in our promotion, always giving 100% and scoring some valuable goals. We of course wish him well for the future and he'll be always welcome at the club.”

Walker, with a wealth of experience behind him, knows what to expect at this time of the year.

He said: "As is the case every season, you talk to players but they don't want to commit until the last minute whilst they search for the best offer. We'll probably start seeing signings as we get into pre-season as payers start deciding on their offers."

Meanwhile, one club that have been busy in the transfer market are resurgent Kent League outfit Greenwich Borough.

The Harrow Meadow club are expected to unveil a number of new signings this week.