Manny Parry is thriving at the heart of Dover’s mean defence.

Whites have the second best defensive record in the National League, conceding only eight goals in 12 games.

They’ve made a big effort to tighten up, with Parry, Connor Essam and Giancarlo Gallifuoco forming a new-look back three.

It’s a different system for Parry, who had only ever played in a back four, but one that’s getting the best out of him.

Parry said: “We work hard at training with the coaching staff on being defensively solid. We know we will always score goals, so if we can be solid, we always have a chance.

“This is my first time playing in a back three and I’m enjoying it. Playing alongside GG and Connor at sweeper, there’s a lot of insurance there, a lot of cover in and around you.”

Dover have surprised some with their start after building a new side but Parry, a summer signing from Braintree, always felt boss Chris Kinnear was on to something.

Parry said: “When I spoke to him he told me about the ambition of the club, trying to push to get into the Football League.

“They’ve been close for three years. He’s an experienced manager and when he spoke to me and told me how he thought I could help, I wanted to sign.

“With his experience, there was no doubt that the club were going to be up there. The manager and coaching staff have made everything easy in what they want from us.”

Third-placed Whites host Solihull Moors on Saturday and go to Sutton on Tuesday.