Billy Clifford is hoping the Ebbsfleet fans can make a potential second National League South title triumph one to remember.

The 30-year-old previously won the league with Wealdstone - but they were promoted during Covid without any supporters in the ground.

The title was decided on points-per-game in the 2019/20 season. It meant Wealdstone were champions but their celebrations were in an empty stadium, months after what had proved to be their final match in a 33-game season.

“I was fortunate enough to win the league with Wealdstone, which was a bit different as it was Covid times,” said Clifford, who made his Ebbsfleet debut in last Saturday’s 4-1 home win over Concord.

“It was great but it wasn’t great, if that makes sense. As a footballer, winning on a personal level is great but winning without the fans is pointless in my opinion.

“Saturday was the first game I’ve experienced it as an Ebbsfleet player and it was great. The far side and behind the goal, they created a really good atmosphere, especially in the last 20 minutes when we needed to push on and get that winner.

“I’ve come here to get promoted and have that feeling with the fans. I want to go into the summer as a champion and get another promotion under my belt. As a footballer that’s what you want to do.”

Clifford had the chance to step up to the National League after his departure from Havant earlier this month. But the opportunity to win promotion with Ebbsfleet was too good to turn down.

“I had a few bits of interest initially,” said Clifford, who has penned an 18-month deal at Stonebridge Road. “For me it was about going to a club that was pushing to win a league.

“Havant are in a really strong position in the league and leaving a club that are pushing for promotion, I wanted to go top end of this league. I didn’t really want to go bottom end of the National League and fight for survival.

“Once I heard of the interest from Ebbsfleet, my mind was made up straight away. I’ve played against Ebbsfleet for the past two seasons and they are by far the best team we’ve played against.

“It was always a game we looked forward to and the style of play here is what I grew up on so it was a pretty easy decision.”