I want to test myself all the time, says Dartford boss Tony Burman

DARTFORD manager Tony Burman says he is looking forward to testing himself in the top flight of non-league football again.

The Darts finished in the bottom three in the Conference Premier last season but were reinstated after the much-publicised financial problems involving both Hereford United and Salisbury City, who were demoted.

Burman is now preparing for his side’s third season in the Conference Premier.

The Darts went down to a 1-0 defeat to Millwall at Princes Park last night, Jermaine Easter notching the only goal of the game for Ian Holloway’s side.

“All the guys have basically come back reasonably fit and have looked after themselves through the summer so it’s been good that they’ve come back in good condition,” said Burman.

“It was a very, very good game. Millwall brought all their first team squad and it was a tough game for us but it was enjoyable and we got some good hard work from the game.”

Dartford continue their strenuous work-out when League One play-off finalists Leyton Orient visit Princes Park on Friday night.

The O’s finished in third-place in the table last season, but lost 4-3 on penalties in the play-off final to Rotherham United after the Wembley showpiece finished all-square at 2-2 after extra-time.

“Leyton Orient have said they’re going to bring their first team squad along,” said Burman.

“It’s going to be a tough game but these tough games do us good in regards to the players’ match fitness and match preparation.

“It’s good that these clubs come to Princes Park bringing their first team squad.”

Burman is delighted to have re-signed former AFC Wimbledon defender Mat Mitchel-King, 30.

He said: “We spoke at the end of the season. He was going to go away, abroad, and do a few things and get himself sorted fitness wise and he’s come back and he’s done that.  He’s in a good state of mind and he’s physically better than he’s been for a while, he tells me.

“Obviously he’s experienced and he knows what we want at the club and he’s come in and come back in a much better place and his experience will without a doubt, will tell for us.”

Burman has had a summer of mixed feelings as he initially suffered relegation last season but is now planning for life in the Conference Premier alongside their Kent rivals Dover Athletic and Welling United.

“After the disappointment of being relegated it took a little bit of time but you start to work again towards the new season,” said Burman.

“I ended up signing 12 players with the intent of playing in the Conference South and we got our heads around that to make a good challenge for that league.

“Unexpectedly, it all changed. I’m grateful for all the players who signed contracts and when I spoke to them again they wanted to give it a go in to the Premier.

“Unfortunately I’ve lost Paul Lorraine (who has signed for Conference South side Whitehawk), but every time I try to sign him something always seems to get in the way unfortunately.

“He did sign but he was unable to commit to the Premier League.

“All in all it was a great response from the players with their attitude towards going back in the top flight of (non-league) football.

Dartford kick-off their league campaign at home against Welsh side Wrexham on Saturday 9 August.

“We’re expecting the same sort of thing,” said Burman.

“Every game is tough but when the fixtures came out and we’ve got Wrexham at home and it’s a fantastic feeling and a great first game for us.

“It’s going to be tough.

“You’re testing yourself all the time and that’s what I want the players’ to do.  I want to test myself all the time as well.”

Burman retains his crown of being the longest serving English football manager in the top five divisions of English football.

“Long may it continue!” he laughs.

Visit Dartford’s website: www.dartfordfconline.com

Dartford  v  Leyton Orient
Pre-Season Friendly
Friday 18^th July 2014
Kick Off 7:45pm
At Princes Park Stadium, Grassbanks, Darenth Road, Dartford, Kent DA1 1RT