Chris Bush says going back to basics has been the key to Ebbsfleet’s improved recent defensive record.

Bush has been ever-present for Fleet since joining on a two-year deal from Chelmsford in the wake of club captain Dave Winfield’s knee injury.

He’s helped them keep clean sheets in five of their last seven games but insists that record hasn’t come easily.

“There’s been a lot of work done behind the scenes,” Bush said. “Me and Kenny Clark know each other personally so that does help.

“Along with Dave Winfield and Yado Mambo, a lot of work’s gone in to making sure we can keep clean sheets and it’s a team effort.

“We’re proud to get another clean sheet and it’s looking good on our record.

“Collectively, we’ve had to knuckle down and go back to basics, making sure we’re solid as a team.”

Bush started the season at Chelmsford, having played for them against Fleet in last season’s play-off final.

But when Winfield (knee) and Clark (hamstring) were both sidelined, Daryl McMahon came calling.

Bush said: “It came out of nothing and happened over the course of a day. I was happy to come here, happy to get back into full-time football and be in this league again. I had a few years at this level before I dropped down to National League South.

“I feel like I’ve been able to show what I’m capable of and we’re in a good team that’s capable of going wherever we choose.

“It’s all about making sure we take care of the next game, which is Barrow on Saturday and we go from there.”