Charlie Naylor has offered an insight into how new Dover manager Jake Leberl has helped spark an upturn in the club’s fortunes.

Popular former player Leberl, 46, has breathed new life into Whites’ National League South survival bid since taking charge, helping the side to just a second league win of the season this week.

He was quick to tell Naylor what he wanted from him - and the centre-half helped deliver Dover’s first clean sheet since April when they drew 0-0 at home to Bath in Leberl’s first game in charge.

That was backed up by last Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Weymouth before a 2-1 home win against Aveley - Dover’s first home league success since February - on Boxing Day.

Naylor explained: “He’s come in and the first thing he told me is that we need more desire and commitment, along with a bit more quality with our defending and a bit more talking - because we have been quiet.

“People have told me that Jake was a great defender.

“Hopefully, he can influence me positively and we can keep a few more clean sheets.”

Leberl replaced Mitch Brundle earlier this month. While Naylor was sad to see Brundle depart, he understood the club’s decision.

“I’d never played at this level before so I texted Mitch and said I appreciated him bringing me in,” he revealed.

“But it was time for a change, I guess, so I’m disappointed.

“Hopefully, it’s a positive step in the right direction in terms of staying up and getting more points on the board.”

Zidan Sutherland marked his birthday with a goal for the hosts at Crabble against Aveley before fit-again midfielder Iffy Allen delivered the all-important third goal of the game in style.

Naylor wants to keep racking up more senior starts for Dover, who will visit Aveley this Saturday in the second part of their double header.

He added: “I’m trying to keep us up, trying to push on and progress my game as well.

“But it’s all about the club.”