ADRIAN PENNOCK heads for a holiday in the United States next week with his future with Gravesend & Northfleet still unclear.

The 32-year-old former Gillingham skipper will think over his future while he is away.

Because of his well-documented knee problem, Pennock has been told the club cannot offer him a contract for next season.

He said: “I’m keeping my options open. I’ll probably make a decision while I’m on holiday. I've enjoyed my time at Gravesend. I get on with everyone at the club and would like to stay.

“But there is a lot to weigh-up and I believe it’s best I get away from it all. It’s been a busy time, what with my testimonial dinner, and I just need my feet to touch the ground because I need to think clearly.”

Manager Andy Ford stressed he is keen to retain Pennock, even though he cannot offer him a contract. He said: "I hope something can be sorted whereby we can keep Adrian. Although we cannot give him a contract, I hope we can use him next season.”

The arrival of Robin Trott, another ex-Gill, to partner Francis Duku at the heart of the Fleet defence, looks certain to restrict Pennock’s first team opportunities next season.

Trott, 28, a former Priestfield junior, made eight first team appearances for the club before moving into semi-professional football with Welling, Stevenage and most recently Grays. He plays on the left side of central defence.

Anthony Hogg has moved from Welling to Stonebridge Road. But the Fleet have lost the services of Nick Burton who has joined Conference rivals Farnborough which is closer to his home in Reading.