Although today’s announcement makes the move official, Derek has already spent several weeks with the squad throughout pre-season, with supporters getting an early glimpse of the former Ghana international during our friendly against Maidstone United.

Few players at this level can boast a career quite like Derek’s. Having represented clubs including Northampton Town, Mansfield Town, Lincoln City, Shrewsbury Town, French Ligue 1 side OGC Nice, Hamilton Academical, Lokomotiv Sofia, Pohang Steelers, Daegu FC and Carlisle United, as well as earning senior international honours for Ghana, he brings a wealth of experience and professionalism to the Belmont. (Wikipedia)

Despite an outstanding career spanning more than two decades, Derek has shown from day one that his desire to improve and compete remains as strong as ever. His attitude, professionalism and fitness have stood out throughout pre-season, where he has consistently been amongst the strongest performers in the club’s early running programme while quickly becoming a popular figure within the dressing room.

First Team Manager Lee Martin said:
“We’re absolutely delighted to have Derek with us. A lot of our supporters will already have spotted him during pre-season, particularly against Maidstone, and they’ll have seen exactly what he still brings.

His career speaks for itself, but what has impressed me most isn’t what he’s done in the past, it’s the hunger he’s shown since walking through the door. He’s trained brilliantly, he’s been outstanding in the early running, and his standards around the group have been first class.

He’s still as driven as ever to compete, improve and help the team succeed. That mentality is infectious, particularly for our younger players, and he’ll be a fantastic addition both on and off the pitch. We’re delighted to have him at Whitstable.”

Everyone at Whitstable Town would like to officially welcome Derek to the Belmont and wish him every success in an Oystermen shirt.