Hogg returns to Dover

CLIVE Walker believes bringing midfielder Anthony Hogg back to Dover was common sense, writes Justin Allen.

Hogg, 25, was released by Tonbridge Angels last month, much to the disappointment of fans of the Longmead club.

Walker insists Hogg is a better player than the promising youngster who was released by Dover four years ago. The Maidstone-born player went on to play for Folkestone, Welling and Gravesend.

And the Whites boss said: "He's a lot stronger now and more experienced. Also, he gives us a goal threat as he does score goals from midfield.

"Anthony knows Dover Athletic well, so it shouldn't be any problem for him to settle in. He's a lad that I know well and he can do a good job for me.

"We needed someone like him. He'll add a bit of midfield muscle, which has been lacking."

Hogg goes straight into the squad that faces Salisbury in a crucial must-win match at the Hoverspeed Stadium on Saturday.

Walker is also hoping to sign a striker in time for the game - although Whites face competition for the player's signature.

He said: "We're one of three clubs that have put a seven-day approach in for this player. He is a goalscorer and I'm hoping he'll opt to come to Dover. But I cannot say for sure that we'll get him."

Meanwhile, Dean Palmer trained with the squad on Tuesday night. Walker was absent, as he was at a game watching a potential target for the club.

The Dover boss said: "Dean is obviously subject to a seven-day approach from Yeading. They are free to talk to him on Friday. I want him to stay here. But I can't stop him going.

"We've offered him a contract which expires at the end of next season. It's a good deal too - but the ball is in his court.

"I know he's a popular lad and the fans want him to stay. He hasn't given me a definite indication yet but I will have to ask him in training on Thursday if he's going to be available for Saturday or not.

"This club is a big one, the biggest in the Ryman League, with the exception of Wimbledon. The fans are brilliant too. Dover is a football town with supporters who care about the club. Players who join Dover can count on good gates and superb support. We hope that this will attract players to sign for us
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"We've got a few irons in the fire for now and even more for the summer. We're working hard to get a winning team that the fans here deserve."

Dover Athletic v Salisbury City
Ryman League Premier Division
Saturday 12th February 2005
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Hoverspeed Stadium, Lewisham Road, River, Dover

www.doverathletic.com