I want ambitious players that are not in it for the money, says Dover Athletic boss Chris Kinnear

DOVER ATHLETIC boss Chris Kinnear says he wants to avoid players who only want to play for the club for the money.


The former Margate boss completed a double striker swoop recently, adding Nathan Elder and Michael Bakare to his revamped squad after signing them from Ebbsfleet United and Chelmsford City respectively.

Kinnear told www.doverathletic.com : "They are young, ambitious, energetic and most importantly they both score goals. They will add more pace to the team and Nathan creates lots of chances as well.

Kinnear revealed the type of footballers he wants to don the white shirt at Crabble this coming season.

He said: "I want ambitious players that are not in it for the money and want to progress, hopefully with us. I don't want a big squad. I am looking at all positions but will avoid signing players that have a history of injuries."

With 11 players currently signed up for the 2013-14 season, Dover Athletic’s pre-season fixtures will provide the perfect opportunity for the boss to look at potential new signings.

Kinnear said: “There will be some triallists coming down and I will certainly keep an open mind as I might find some gems.

“I don’t want to waste what is a very competitive budget early and it’s important we all get value for money. It is very much quality over quantity.”

Kinnear was also able to give an update on some of last season’s squad that are out of contract.

“We are finalising deals with Barry Cogan.  Mitchell Walker has been offered a contract too and we await his decision.

“Steven Thomson and Calum Willock will not be with us.”

Dover Athletic report to pre-season training next Saturday and welcome League Two side Dagenham & Redbridge to Crabble on Saturday 6 July (3pm).

Kinnear said: “Jake (Leberl) will take on training and I might bring in a player-coach as well, but I tend to watch so that nothing is missed. It worked really well between myself and Jake at Margate.”

Meanwhile, you can watch Dover Athletic for just £5 at EVERY home pre-season friendly in July.

A club statement said: “The club appreciates the financial restraints on many supporters and wants to give ALL fans the opportunity to enjoy our pre-season friendlies at Crabble.

“Therefore, entrance fees have been reduced to £5 for everyone, with the exception of Under 11s and season ticket holders who can enter the stadium for free.

“We hope that the low price gives the people of Dover the chance to sample what your local club has to offer on and off the pitch.”

Chairman Jim Parmenter said: "As a club we are continuing to work on our community based activities and hope that this encourages more local people to come and sample what we have to offer at Crabble.

"Chris Kinnear is building a strong, pacey and talented side, who will be looking to make an impression in the pre-season schedule."

Kinnear is hoping the reduced admission price will encourage fans to attend.

He said: "It's a good idea. The supporters are brilliant and the more that come in the easier it makes it for me to attract players.

"Ambitious players will want to play in front of as a big a crowd as possible. I would prefer to win home games over away games for the fans, though we want to try and win every game!"

New signings Bakare and Elder are excited to start pre-season alongside their new team-mates and entertain supporters at Crabble.

Bakare said: "It's great the club are making it just £5 to come in, as it will be a chance for more fans to see what the team will look like this season and how it will shape up.

Bakare is hoping a close bond will be formed between players and supporters.

"This can only be a good thing and I will give 100% every game, I never give up. Ricky Modeste and Moses Ademola have told me how good the fans are here."

Bakare's strike partner, Elder added: "I think the supporters will be entertained this season as we have a lot of quality in the squad. This is a really exciting time at Dover Athletic."

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