I’m hopeful of some signings soon but I’ve always stressed they have to be right to fit into our model and philosophy, says Ramsgate boss Lloyd Blackman

RAMSGATE manager Lloyd Blackman says the club are making investment in their facilities this summer and that he is keeping many of his younger players at Southwood Stadium.

The only departure has seen 30-goal striker Alfie Paxman leave for Bostik Premier Division club Folkestone Invicta.  Neil Cugley lost 20-goal striker Joe Taylor to his league rivals Margate.

“I’ve had the phone to my ear non-stop this last month speaking to players, as well as racking up a fair few miles meeting some,” Blackman told www.ramsgate-fc.co.uk.

“I’m hopeful of some signings soon but I’ve always stressed they have to be right to fit into our model and philosophy.

“We have a group of exciting, young players here and the signings I plan to make must not only improve us but compliment what we already have.

“All are back with us next season except Alfie.  Not one player has said they don’t want to be here and be part of next season with us.”

“Myself and chairman Phil Fennel have spoken in detail about plans around the ground.  Investment on the pitch this year should provide an improved playing surface and as well as plans to enlarge the changing room will create a better working environment for the players.

“I will shortly be advertising for a videographer too. Games I’ve previously had filmed proved extremely helpful, not just for us as coaches but also has helped the players highlight certain aspects and areas of their game.”

Ramsgate, who finished in sixteenth-place in the Bostik South Division last season, have issued their retained list:
Tom Chapman, George Crimmen, Charlie Dickens, Liam Dickson, Ollie Gray, Shannon Harris, Tijan Jadama, Sam Lawford, Kyron Lightfoot, Jake Mackenzie, Jacob Mensah, Aaron Millbank, Billy Munday, Jake Munday, Jack Penny, Rory Smith, Luke Watkins and Luke Wheatley.

Visit Ramsgate’s website:  www.ramsgate-fc.co.uk