Faversham Town sign striker Ben Francis: I want to get Faversham up the leagues

FAVERSHAM TOWN manager James Collins has signed former Dartford striker Ben Francis.

The highly-rated 22-year-old has played for Collins at previous clubs Chatham Town, Cray Valley and Lordswood.

The Isthmian League South East Division club returned to pre-season training this week and Collins put his squad through a two-hour session, which included a 5k run and bleep tests alongside drills that can be run within FA restrictions imposed during the coronavirus pandemic.

“I can't wait to get started at Faversham Town. Hopefully, I'll bag a few goals,” Francis told the club website.

“I’m an all-round striker and I always give everything I have on the pitch.

“I’ve kept on top of my fitness during lockdown and I just can’t wait to get going.

“I’ve played for James before, so I know what he expects of his players and he knows what he'll get from me.

“I want to try and get the team into the play-offs and get promotion and start moving up the leagues. That has to be our aim.”

Collins added: “Ben is an all-round number 9, can run in behind or play as a hold-up man.

“He’s got plenty of energy and has a knack for scoring goals. Injuries have stopped him from reaching his full potential so far, but with injuries now behind him I’m sure he will fulfil that potential at Faversham Town.”

The Isthmian League has not yet confirmed a start date for the new season but the players have begun a routine to ensure they are prepared and Collins is also busy agreeing a series of pre-season friendlies to get his team up to match sharpness, ahead of the new campaign, which is expected to kick-off in September, subject to the Government giving it the go-ahead following the health crisis.

Meanwhile, midfielder Stefan Wright has announced that he has left Salters Lane.

Visit Faversham Town’s website: www.favershamtownfc.co.uk