Charlie Sheringham has spoken out about his decision to turn down Dartford and sign instead for Ebbsfleet this week.

The 26-year-old, having been released by AFC Wimbledon, signed a two-year contract with the Fleet on Monday.

Sheringham could have played Conference Premier football with the Darts next season, but full-time training with Ebbsfleet was too good for the striker to turn down.

He said: "I did have a couple of options and I was tempted to go back to Dartford.

"I enjoyed it there and love the club, but with the fact they’re still part-time, I just thought I’d be a better player if I was training and practising full-time because I’m still learning.

"The Dartford boys are still working full-time and training around that. I’ve been there – I used to work full-time as well – and it’s tough. I’ve got my football head on now and want to progress.

"It’s been a summer of thinking for me. I went on loan to Salisbury (in March) and did quite well there.

"I went back to Wimbledon and didn’t get offered a new contract, so I spoke to a few people over the summer. I wanted to stay in London and stay training full-time, so Ebbsfleet seemed like the right move.

"Where the club aims to be going, and how professional it is, they’ve got high hopes for the future. I want to get a full season under my belt and help Ebbsfleet fulfil their potential."

Full story in the Gravesend Messenger.