Ebbsfleet boss Daryl McMahon is grateful that injured forward Aaron McLean's experience off the pitch will aid the club’s youngsters.

McLean will be sidelined for six to nine months after his injury was confirmed as an anterior cruciate ligament.

McLean had surgery last week but his presence around the squad will still be a major influence in the months ahead.

“He was in the club on Monday and hopefully in two or three weeks he’ll be off his crutches and moving forward,” added McMahon.

“To lose someone as good as Aaron and the form he was in is a big loss. But the good thing is that he brings as much to the changing room as the pitch. He is great to have around, especially for the likes of Darren McQueen and Bradley Bubb.

“He likes to help them and I am sure he will mentor one or two of the players. I’m happy for him to do it, I like the lad. He has been at the top level and is a good influence.”

McMahon is not actively searching for a replacement but will act if “someone is available that will strengthen” the squad.

He added: “We’ve got Charlie Sheringham and Bradley Bubb who are two very good players so it’s not something immediately on my radar. But if something out of the ordinary came along then I would look at it.”