Find local news in Kent

Home   Dartford   Sport   Article

Dartford FC defender Ronnie Vint committed to the club despite interest from elsewhere

00:00, 04 August 2017

Big clubs are continuing to monitor Ronnie Vint but the defender remains firmly committed to Dartford.

Promoted from the Darts academy two years ago, Vint is now a regular in the first team and at the age of 21, has already started 80 games for the club.

Assured displays at centre-half have alerted scouts but for now, Vint’s focus is another National League South promotion push.

Dartford defender Ronnie Vint Picture: Andy Payton
Dartford defender Ronnie Vint Picture: Andy Payton

He said: "I want to play at the highest level I can.

"Hopefully, there will be a chance but I love it down here, playing for the team, under the gaffer and the fans, they’re brilliant. Hopefully, I can give something back this season.

"This is my fourth or fifth year now, having gone through the academy. I feel I need to give something back.

"It would be nice to get promoted and stay with them – if not, look elsewhere. But my head’s here this season."

Dartford co-chairman Steve Irving knows they won’t keep Vint forever but isn’t looking to sell any time soon.

He said: "Ronnie’s at the top of his game and a big part of the future of the club.

"Perhaps him moving on is something that, for him to progress, is going to happen.

"Over the last couple of years, clubs have made enquiries but he’s still firmly a Dartford player and I hope he remains so for some time to come."

Ronnie Vint in pre-season action against Millwall Picture: Andy Payton
Ronnie Vint in pre-season action against Millwall Picture: Andy Payton

Vint’s quality at the back alongside Tom Bonner will be key as Darts look to improve on last season’s third-placed finish.

He said: "This is my third season with the first team. Winning the Kent Senior Cup in my first season was good.

"Last season, it was a shame (to lose) in the play-offs but I learnt so much more than I did in the first year.

"I was out of the team, broke my wrist and got knocked out so I learnt massively last year and it was better than my first year. I’m looking forward to getting started again.

"In the last game of the season I chipped a bone in my foot so it was a frustrating start to pre-season when I couldn’t really do anything.

"I was behind everyone but I’ve caught up and I’m looking forward to the start.

"We got to the play-offs last year so this year, why can’t we win it, or if not, win the play-offs?"

Dartford start the season at home to Hungerford on Saturday.

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More