We've got the best pair of centre backs in our league, says Folkestone Invicta boss Neil Cugley

FOLKESTONE INVICTA boss Neil Cugley says he has re-signed the best pair of centre backs in the league.

Liam Friend, 26, and Frankie Chappell, 25, have both put pen to paper to remain at Cheriton Road.

Friend stages his testimonial match when League One side Gillingham visit on Friday 11 July (7:30pm).

The pair, so key to everything the club have done for so many years now – headed the list as last season’s Ryman League Division One South play-off finalists started signing on again for next season.

“I’ll argue with anyone who says they are not the best pair of centre backs in our league - and some way beyond - and I’m delighted that they will be with us again this coming season,” Cugley told www.folkestoneinvictafc.co.uk.  

“Not only are they such good players, they’re two of the best lads you’ll ever meet and a credit to the club and themselves both on the and off the field.”

Club captain Friend, who was en ever present last season when the club finished runners-up, has started 391 games for the club, making five as substitute, scoring six goals in total.

Former Gillingham youngster Chappell, has made 331 starts, two as sub and has scored 40 goals for the club, 12 last season.

Invicta expect to have all of last season’s squad available for next season, other than two strikers.

Simon Austin has left to manage Southern Counties East Football League side Erith Town, replacing Mark Tompkins, while talented teenage striker Johan Ter Horst, who scored 27 goals last season, is now a young professional with Premier League club Hull City.

Visit Folkestone Invicta’s website: www.folkestoneinvictafc.co.uk