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Former Cambridge United and Welling United striker Andy Pugh explains why he signed for Dartford

08:00, 05 June 2014

Andy Pugh. Picture: Keith Gillard
Andy Pugh. Picture: Keith Gillard

Andy Pugh signed for Dartford because he wanted to be their top man.

The striker has played second fiddle for the past two seasons at Conference Premier Cambridge United, from whom he joined Welling for £15,000 in 2012.

Pugh signed a one-year deal with the Darts last week and is keen to rediscover his best form as the main striker at Princes Park.

"When I met with Tony Burman (Dartford manager), he said that he was going to build the team around me and he wanted to go straight back up," said Pugh. "It was what I wanted to hear. I wanted to be guaranteed a spot to play each week.

"Of course, I know I need to perform and work hard but Tony made my decision easier as he was so keen to sign me. I need to play regularly and score goals."

Financial security also played a key role in Pugh’s decision to opt for Dartford ahead of two other clubs, one of which he confirmed was his former side Welling for whom he scored 46 goals in 84 games.

Andy Pugh (centre) had a loan spell at Ebbsfleet last season Picture: Andy Payton
Andy Pugh (centre) had a loan spell at Ebbsfleet last season Picture: Andy Payton

The 25-year-old marries fiancee Yasmin on Saturday and Dartford’s offer also came with the added incentive of a daytime coaching role with the club’s academy, making it a bid Pugh could not refuse.

He said: "For the last few months it has been in the back of my mind, that there was a chance Cambridge were going to let me go.

"I was getting worried as I have my mortgage to pay and the wedding is coming up. I wanted to be secure financially and go somewhere I could play more football.

"I had other offers as well, some big offers, but I felt this was the best opportunity to enjoy my football and I’m pleased with the decision I made.

"Plus Tony offered me a job with the academy and that suited me."

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