Working at Dartford has reignited Alan McLeary’s passion for coaching.

The former Millwall defender took over as manager at The Den but his football involvement in the past two decades has largely been as a scout.

That’s changed at the start of this season as he reunited with Alan Dowson, who joined as an apprentice at Millwall when McLeary was in the first team.

“It’s been great, I’ve really enjoyed it,” said McLeary.

“They’ve got a good group of players, good characters and good lads. It’s always nice to work with people that you feel appreciate it and respond to some of the things we try to put into them.

“I had a break from coaching generally for quite a while after I left Millwall. I went into scouting and it’s been nice to get back into a bit of coaching - being involved on the training pitch is always nice.

“The opportunity (for management) wasn’t there when I first got released from Millwall. I went into scouting for a few different clubs. I’ve not really been tempted in terms of management, but going to Dartford has been great to get that desire back in terms of wanting to coach and be around players on matchdays.”

McLeary has seen Dowson’s work at close quarters this season. And he’s adamant that Dartford are in safe hands with the former Woking and Hampton boss at the helm.

“He’s a different personality from when he first came down,” reflected McLeary.

“He was a very shy and quiet lad when I first met him, he was about 15 and it was difficult for him coming from Newcastle.

“His character is still exactly the same, he always wanted to be a winner, he was a determined boy and has turned into a determined man. He wants to win and doesn’t suffer fools gladly.

“He wants a certain standard of work and his work ethic has always been like that. He’s become more confident and I don’t think Dartford could have a better person to run the club.

“At this standard of football, his reputation is excellent. The club is in good hands with him there and hopefully we can go on and be successful this season.”