Two Kent clubs chase Dryden as striker turns down Dover contract

The prolific striker leaves after two and a half years at SeaFrance Crabble. The news will stun Dover fans who idolised him.

Dryden crowned his stay with the winning goal against Burgess Hill to clinch the Ryman League Division One South title.

Two rival Kent Ryman League clubs – one of them a Premier outfit – are believed to be speaking to Dryden.

Whites boss Andy Hessenthaler, speaking to www.doverathletic.com, said: "Jimmy phoned me this morning and said he’s not going to be staying with us.

"He feels he won’t get regular first team football – but I feel he did get that last season. He was our top goalscorer."

"However, he leaves us on amicable terms and there’s certainly no animosity between us.

"Jimmy’s made his decision and I wish him all the best for the future.

"I would personally like to thank him for what he did at this football club last season. He played a big part in helping us win the championship. But there is life at Dover after Jimmy Dryden."

Dover Athletic FC had published this article on their website yesterday:

DOVER ATHLETIC player-boss Andy Hessenthaler has confirmed that Jimmy Dryden's contract offer has been amended and is expecting a decision "within days", writes Justin Allen.

The popular striker was offered a new deal but has yet to decide whether to commit to the club for a further season.

Hessenthaler, who has just returned from a short break abroad, spoke to Dryden, and has removed the clause in the contract that was protecting the club in the event of his old problematic knee injury flaring up.

The Whites chief, speaking to www.doverathletic.com, said: "I've taken out that clause from his contract. We've made Jimmy an excellent offer for this level of football and the ball is now firmly in his court.

"We've just won the title and promotion. We're going to have a crack at trying to win promotion again. Why would anyone want to miss out on that?

"We want Jimmy to stay and I spoke to the lad today. He's promised to let me know quickly.

"Hopefully Jimmy will sign, which would be good news, but if he doesn't then we'll wish him well and move on."

Articles courtesy of www.doverathletic.com