Ebbsfleet boss Daryl McMahon admits he’s gutted to see Peter Varney step down as vice-chairman but is confident Dean Pooley will be a good replacement.

Mr Varney will leave the role after Saturday’s game against Warrington having overseen the day-to-day running of the club since it was taken over by KEH Sports in 2013.

He backed McMahon for the manager’s job in 2015 and the pair have formed a strong partnership ever since.

McMahon said: “I’m gutted to lose Pete because we’re close but Dean’s been involved in the last year and we get on well.

“Dean’s been involved in a lot of deals we did in the summer and a lot of deals this week especially. He’s been heavily involved.

“We’ve got a close relationship, me and Dean, our families go out together but I thank Pete because he’s been excellent. He gave me my chance here and backed for me two-and-a-half years. He’s been great for the football club.

“You probably can’t describe what he’s done for the club, behind the scenes, his vision for the club and where it is now and his work ethic.

“He’s passionate about the club, like we all are, in terms of moving it forward on and off the pitch. Pete’s been the fulcrum of that and been terrific.

“We have to keep moving forward. We’re driven, as a club and individuals, to keep moving forward and be successful and hopefully we can build on Pete’s good work.”

Mr Varney will also leave the board of directors this weekend.