Scott Porter is delighted that so many senior players have committed their future to Whitstable for next season.

Despite their relegation from Ryman League, Division 1 South, Porter has signed on for a crack at the Southern Counties East League title next term and has seen all his senior players do the same.

Dan Eason, Joe Kennett, Michael Yianni, Craig Thompson, Stuart King and Lee Winfield have all agreed to remain while Callum Wraight, Scott Punton, Harris Rodgers, Charlie Smith, Jamie Collado and Grant McIlheron have also pledged to stay.

Porter said: “There is plenty of work going on. I’m delighted to have got commitments from so many of the lads and I’m working on a couple of others, too. I want a striker, defender and midfielder.”

Porter confirmed Bob Reardon as his assistant manager as well as unveiling former players Brendon Cass as first-team coach and Dean Ruddy as goalkeeper coach.

He added: “They bring a lot of experience and most importantly, a lot of trust. I like to work with people that I know and who know me and I’m looking forward to getting going again with a new season.”

After starting pre-season training at the end of June, Whitstable will visit Canterbury City’s temporary home at Ashford in their opening friendly on July 16 before hosting Faversham on July 23 and Chatham on July 30.

Folkestone Invicta will visit the Belmont on August 2 while Porter has also scheduled a trip to Lydd on August 6.