Liam Daish says question marks over defender Derek Duncan’s fitness was the reason why he decided against offering him a contract at Stonebridge Road.

The 24-year-old left-back (pictured), who initially agreed non-contract terms with the club earlier this summer, met the Ebbsfleet boss last week seeking a new deal.

But Daish turned down his request and Woking subsequently made an official seven-day approach the following day.

Daish said: "I had issues concerning Derek’s fitness and application at times. We were honest with each other. He agreed with me about the situation and it looks like he is moving on.

"My budget is that tight that I have to be 100 per cent sure that players are ready to play.

"It was a close decision on whether we were going to release him in the summer. I can’t afford to carry any players who I have doubts about their fitness.

"Derek expressed he wanted to go on contract for his own peace of mind, which I declined as I thought it was too early to do so, yet that could change at a later date.