Former England C international and accomplished defender Daniel Johnson surprised many when he opted to sign for Bostik Premier side Margate last week, making the move from Kent rivals Dartford a division above ‘The Gate’.

However Johnson is keen to point out that this move is a progressive one for his career.

He acknowledges that eyebrows would be raised by the move but told Kent Sports News that the opportunity to work with Jay Saunders was simply too good an opportunity to turn down.

“I had a few offers to stay at National league south level, however, when I spoke to Jay I was keen to sign for Margate. I think it’s a good chance for me to play again at centre half and develop my game under a successful manage at this level”.

Fresh off winning young player of the season at Dartford, his caps for England C and the fact that this is a young man with over 50 appearances in the National League for Bromley. Johnson is one of the most promising young defenders in the county. In that respect his signing by Margate represents some very good business on the part of Jay Saunders.

Having first broken into the Bromley side as a Centre Back, following his move from Herne Bay in 2016/17, it was only last season that Johnson was moved to a more unconventional full back position that ultimately culminated in his departure to Dartford in October 2018.

Despite winning the aforementioned young player of the season award at Dartford, however, Johnson wanted a move to a club where he could once again play in his preferred position, he said “Margate is a great move for me, to play in a position where I want to play long term in my career”.

Margate currently reside in the Bostik Premier but whilst Johnson does still harbour ambitions he feels these can also be fulfilled under the tutelage of Jay Saunders.

“I think you’ve always got to be ambitious and strive to play at the highest level possible, so climbing back up the leagues is in my thoughts. However, you also have to look at the club you’re at and what part you’re going to play in the season. As I’m getting to an age now where I want to be playing week in week out”.

He continued “ I definitely think Margate has good foundations to set up something special for the season. We have a youthful but exciting squad this year, and everyone knows Jay has done it before at Maidstone so I don’t see why he can’t do it all over again at Margate.”

The Margate squad resumed training on Saturday and supporters will have the opportunity to see Johnson in action at home against Welling this coming Saturday as Margate kick off their pre-season campaign.