Herne Bay boss Sam Denly expects to receive some flak when he returns to Whitstable Town in the opposition dug-out for the annual Bruce Smith Shield clash on Saturday (3pm).

After two serious knee injuries, Denly, 29, retired from football in 2011 after spending much of his career as captain at The Belmont.

Denly, who was also on the coaching staff at Town last season, said: “I’ll probably get a bit of stick but I’m looking forward to it.

“Whitstable are a club that is close to my heart. I am from Whitstable and have a lot of good friends there. I’m sure there will be a bit of flak flying and banter but I’m also sure there will be plenty who’ll give me a nice welcome.”

Denly, whose father Nick managed Bay in the early 2000s, has bolstered his squad in the run-up to the game with the signing of midfielder Sam Hasler, who was part of Erith & Belvedere’s Kent League-winning squad last year.

Denly said: “Sam has come along to a couple of sessions and has impressed me. He looks a real player and I’m pleased to have him signed.”

However, Steve Hanson has left Bay to join Deal, with Denly saying: “It’s a shame because I wanted him to stay. Unfortunately his work commitments mean he can’t commit to Ryman League football as he couldn’t finish in time to travel to away games.”