Whites continued their pre season preparations by securing the services of last season’s play off hero Nathan Elder for another season – a move that delighted the giant striker.

‘I’m happy that it is finally done and dusted. The club had a few bits to sort out after winning promotion, but the gaffer left me a message asking me to sign. I am really excited as I enjoy playing clubs like Gateshead, Macclesfield and Bristol Rovers.’

With the bookmakers undoubtably making new arrivals Dover one of the favourites for relegation, Chris Kinnear’s men are facing a different type of challenge after a number of years where promotion has always been widely expected. Nathan is confident he and his team mates can prove any doubters wrong and keep Dover in the Skrill Premier. ‘Our attitude and commitment is first class and the way that we conduct ourselves is first class – Which is half the job done.’

*Q1*Elder and the likes of Barry Cogan and Craig Stone already have experience at that level, which will be invaluable to the non league Premier novices at the club. ‘Between us we have a lot of knowledge and as long as the young lads listen and take on criticism like they did last season then 100% they will be able to make the step up.’

*Lpic1*Fifteen goals last season was a decent return for Elder, but the marksmen feels he was below his best in front of goal and will be demanding a higher standard from himself. ‘I was not at my best and I want to score more. We will be facing fitter, stronger and smarter defenders next season, so I need to be at my fittest. Training three times a week will help that.’