Boss Steve King has explained how Deal plan to have a slightly different focus with this summer’s pre-season.

The Hoops host a Gillingham side on Tuesday, July 11, three days after a trip to Isthmian Premier Margate, and will also visit Isthmian South East Herne Bay on July 18.

But three of the Southern Counties East Premier Division side’s other four friendlies are against lower-division opposition - in contrast to last year when they faced neighbours Dover and a Charlton under-23s outfit, as well as a Gillingham team. They will also visit Southern Combination Premier Division Crowborough Athletic on Saturday, July 15.

On the Gills clash, King explained: “It will be their under-23s, I think, they’re looking to start.

“We have played them in the last two or three seasons and they have enjoyed coming along.

“We’re pleased they’re bringing a side down.

“The other mix of friendlies is probably the most focused we have had football-wise. A lot of teams are looking at trialists - but we will be different in that we know what we’re working to.

“We have some of the games on 3G, we didn’t have the greatest record on 3G, and it’s something that will help us to improve.

“Last year, we had sides from Gillingham, Charlton and Dover, where we didn’t have the ball a huge amount.

“This year, it should be slightly different.”

King has confirmed Riley Alford, Ben Chapman, Tom Chapman, Connor Coyne, Alfie Foster, Alex Green, Jack Hanson, Liam Hark, Aaron Millbank, Billy Munday, Macca Murray, Henry Newcombe, Jack Penny, Joe Reeves, Alex Smith, Kane Smith and Sam Taylor have committed to stay.

He added: “Obviously, you’re never 100% until the season starts, but we’re in a good position in respects of retaining that base.”

His backroom staff of Dean Hill, Kieron Hollier, Dave Briggs and Dan Levey will also be remaining at Deal with him.

“They have been excellent - Dean and Kieron have had decent non-league careers themselves,” King said.

“If the players can carry on with that continuity and the staff can carry on with that continuity - with a squad which did well from Christmas - then that’s great.

“Hopefully, we can add a couple of boys and we should be in a position to have a good season.”