Andy Drury predicts Folkestone’s new-look central midfield partnership will be the best in Isthmian Premier next season.

One-time Arsenal player Jack Jebb, now 28, has joined Invicta while fellow midfielder Dean Rance has made his loan stay a permanent one.

Jebb, also formerly of Dartford and Welling, worked with Drury while he was coaching briefly with the Darts and 32-year-old Rance played alongside his new boss at Ebbsfleet.

Folkestone manager Drury said: “Jack was in the National League with Dorking last year and went on loan to Havant.

“Jebby, for me, has been one of the best midfielders in National League South for five or six years. We have been speaking since March-time.

“To get that over the line is quite a big coup.

“For me, with him next to Rancey, I think we have got the best combination in midfield in the league for next year. Rancey will take care of the defensive side of things mostly and allow Jebby to go forward.

“His set-piece delivery will be big for us, as well.”

Rance arrives on a two-year deal. He made 16 appearances during four months at Cheriton Road in 2023/24.

He won National League South promotion alongside Drury at Ebbsfleet in 2017. Rance, who started at Gillingham, initially signed for National League North Scunthorpe in March 2023.

He had two loan spells at Maidstone and earned a permanent deal with Dover for the 2012/13 season after a loan stint.

“Rancey was sorted a couple of weeks ago,” explained Drury. “He had plenty of offers.

“He wins his headers, he wins his tackles and, for me, he’s the best defensive midfielder in this league.”

Drury remains in talks with Folkestone’s current crop.

Former Tonbridge Angels keeper Jonny Henly has also agreed to join the club with Kai McKenzie-Lyle departing in search of a return to higher-division football and fellow goalkeeper Joe Coleman also moving on.