Ebbsfleet striker Dominic Poleon says the club will always have a special place in his heart.

The 31-year-old was released by the relegated National League outfit this week after four years at Stonebridge Road.

Poleon scored 81 goals in 167 games for the Fleet and departs as their eighth leading goalscorer of all time.

The highlight was undoubtedly his goalscoring prowess in leading the club to the National League South title in 2022/23 under the management of former Fleet boss Dennis Kutrieb.

Poleon scored 38 goals in all competitions that season – including four hat-tricks – and was named Supporters’ Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year as well as the National League South player of the season.

“Today’s a bittersweet one as I say goodbye to a club that’s meant the world to me,” said Poleon.

“Since joining Ebbsfleet in 2021, I could never have imagined becoming 8th on the all-time goalscorers list with 81 goals in 167 games, winning promotion, and picking up individual honours I’ll always treasure.

“But it is the journey, not just the numbers, that will stay with me. There have been highs and lows, and through it all, the fans have been unreal. Your belief and passion kept me going. I will never forget that.

“Special thanks to Dennis Kutrieb, Damian Irvine, and all my teammates for backing me and helping me grow on and off the pitch.

“Ebbsfleet has been more than just a club to me. It has been family. To the staff behind the scenes and everyone who makes this place special, thank you.

“New chapter ahead, but I will always carry the Fleet in my heart.”

Speaking at the end of the title-winning season, Poleon outlined why he enjoyed such a successful campaign.

“Sometimes the stars align - how the team plays, what the manager wants you to do, the style of play, happiness, being comfortable,” he said.

“They all play into how a footballer can perform on the pitch. Luckily, for this group of lads and myself it’s all aligned and everyone is playing really good football.

“There’s so many things that contribute to success and now we can look back and say it’s been a great season.”