Skipper Paul Lorraine commits future to Ebbsfleet United

EBBSFLEET UNITED are delighted to announce that their inspirational captain Paul Lorraine and Joe Howe, who won no fewer than four end-of-season trophies, including players’ player and supporters’ player of the year, have signed new contracts with the club today.

Manager Liam Daish who himself has just put pen to paper and signed up for two years, told www.ebbsfleetunited.co.uk: “To have Paul and Joe on board so soon after the end of last season shows their commitment to the club.

“I have been holding talks with other players and more signings will follow over the next couple of weeks, as many of the players are taking holidays at this time.

“With the club finishing in such a good position last season, I am obviously keen to build and improve on that success”

Daish is hoping to keep a strong nucleus of last season’s squad; club director Jessica McQueen added:  “I am obviously pleased to have Paul and Joe back with us. The talks with Liam and his signing taking place fairly quickly and several weeks before his current contract ended has given the club a real confidence boost.”

Meanwhile, Johnny Herd and Clint Easton have been released by the Stonebridge Road club.

The Blue Square Bet Premier club, who will have a Kent derby in the shape of newly promoted neighbours Dartford in the Conference Premier next season, have confirmed three pre-season friendlies.

Daish will take his side to play away to Tonbridge Angels (14 July) and Maidstone United (31 July) and The Fleet will welcome League One side Leyton Orient to Stonebridge Road on 21 July.

Russell Slade’s side ended Bromley’s dreams in last season’s FA Cup First Round with a 3-0 win at Brisbane Road last November.

Visit Ebbsfleet United’s website: www.ebbsfleetunited.co.uk