Dover Athletic release four after sealing promotion back to top-flight

DOVER ATHLETIC have confirmed their retained list ahead of their return to the Conference Premier next season.

The Whites sealed promotion after beating their Kent rivals Ebbsfleet United 1-0 in the Skrill South Play-Off Final at Stonebridge Road on 10 May.

Manager Chris Kinnear guided the club to fifth-place after 42 games but they became the first side to gain promotion via the play-offs after finishing their league campaign in that position in the table.

The club can now look forward to playing in the top flight of non-league football after a 12-year absence.

The Crabble outfit issued their retain list and players already under contract for next season are goalkeeper Mitch Walker, 22, defenders Sean Raggett and Tom Wynter, midfielder Tom Murphy, 22, and striker Jeff Goulding, 30.

In addition, three players have signed new contracts – defender Richard Orlu and midfield duo Chris Kinnear (junior), 23 and Ricky Modeste.

The club has confirmed that four players of the squad that helped win promotion have been released.

Defender Terrell Forbes, 32, midfielders James Rogers and Ashley Carew, 28, and striker Elliott Charles, 24, have all been shown the door.

Rogers, 29, has already signed a contract to play for Ryman Premier League side Maidstone United next season.

Moses Ademola, Nathan Elder, Craig Stone, Barry Cogan, Liam Bellamy and Michael Kamara have either been offered a contract by the club and are weighing up their options, or are currently away on holiday.  With the latter, manager Chris Kinnear will talk to the players upon their return.

“Dover Athletic would like to thank those players departing for their efforts and wish them well for the future,” said a brief club statement.

Visit Dover Athletic’s website: www.doverathletic.com