It was an easy decision to sign for Dartford, says Richard Rose

DARTFORD manager Tony Burman has unveiled the signing of versatile defender Richard Rose from League Two side Dagenham & Redbridge.

Tonbridge-born Rose, 29, who began his career in Kent with Gillingham, where he made 58 first team appearances, has also played for Hereford United, before signing for Dagenham & Redbridge in August 2011, making 10 appearances for the Daggers.

But he completed his move to the Blue Square Bet Premier new boys after recently leaving the Essex club.

Burman told www.dartfordfconline.com: “We’ve been talking to Richard for quite a while and we’ve finally done a deal.

“Richard had another year left on his contract at Dagenham & Redbridge and things have been sorted out which have allowed him to come to us.

“Richard is a right-back but can play anywhere across the back and in midfield and we need someone who can cover positions.

“I’m delighted to have someone of his calibre and experience signing for us.”

Rose, who will wear the number 2 shirt this season, stated that former Dart and Daggers team-mate Luke Wilkinson helped make his mind up to join the Kent club.

He said: “Luke had a lot of good things to say about the club and when the manager said I wasn’t going to feature a lot this year, I spoke to Tony during the summer.  He was saying positive things about the club so it was an easy decision to make and join Dartford.

“It’ll be difficult to change from full-time to part-time, but it’s going to be a good challenge.”

The Darts, who have secured three promotions in six seasons under Burman’s guidance, kick-off their Conference Premier campaign on Saturday when Tamworth visit Princes Park.

Visit Dartford’s websites: www.dartfordfconline.com  & www.dartfordfootballclub.co.uk