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Dover sign ex-Chelsea, Hartlepool and Harrogate midfielder

Dover have completed the signing of Michael Woods on a two-year deal.

The midfielder, who was released by Harrogate Town in May, joins the club just a day after it was announced Bedsente Gomis would be leaving Crabble.

He marks the club's third signing of the summer behind ex-Crawley Town shot-stopper Yusuf Mersin and former Dagenham & Redbridge midfielder Jack Munns.

Dover Manager Andy Hessenthaler thanks fans. Dover Athletic vs. Sutton United in the final game of the season. Crabble Stadium, Lewisham Rd, Dover CT17 0QJ. 270419 Picture: Alan Langley... (9257839)
Dover Manager Andy Hessenthaler thanks fans. Dover Athletic vs. Sutton United in the final game of the season. Crabble Stadium, Lewisham Rd, Dover CT17 0QJ. 270419 Picture: Alan Langley... (9257839)

York-born Woods began his youth career with Leeds United before signing for Chelsea as a 16-year-old in a joint-deal with Tom Taiwo worth £5million.

He eventually made his first team debut for the Premier League side in an FA Cup third round tie against Macclesfield in 2007, before appearing on two other occasions in the competition.

The Englishman would go on to spend a month on loan with Notts County in 2010, followed by a switch to Yeovil Town in 2012.

Having also experienced spells with Doncaster Rovers and Harrogate Town between 2012-2014, his most successful time arrived at Hartlepool where he managed 135 appearances and 14 goals across all competitions between 2014-2018.

Woods then returned for a second stint at Harrogate in November 2018, helping the club secure a sixth-placed finish in the National League.

The 29-year-old has also previously featured for England’s under-16s, under-17s and under-19s.

Andy Hessenthaler revealed on Thursday that Gomis will be leaving this summer after rejecting an improved deal at the club, while confirming that Joe Bedford is set to stay put having also been offered a fresh contract.

The future of Anthony Jeffrey is expected to become clearer in the coming days as the winger continues preparations for the upcoming Concacaf Gold Cup with Guyana.

Hessenthaler is also due to meet with captain Mitch Brundle to discuss his plans moving forward.

Read more: All the latest Kent sport news

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