Dover Athletic defender Danny Collinge provides farewell message as he leaves the club and signs for National League Barnet

Defender Danny Collinge has thanked Dover as he leaves the club for a new challenge.

Collinge joined National League Barnet on Tuesday after the expiry of his contract at Dover, with Whites having been relegated from the league at the end of their 2021/22 season.

Dover boss Andy Hessenthaler had hoped to keep hold of Collinge, who scored twice in a 2-2 draw at Bromley and made 39 starts during the 2021/22 campaign - more than any other Dover player - but will now need to plan for life without the former Colchester and MK Dons centre-back.

On Twitter, Collinge wrote: “Thank you @DoverAthletic.

“I want to say a big thank you to all the staff and players at @DoverAthletic for making my first season in the #NationalLeague one to remember.

“The season wasn't absent of many challenges, but the manner in which everyone pulled together will stand the club in good stead for years to come.

“Thank you to the fans for supporting me throughout the year. Your personal messages inspired me and pushed me to give my all for the club.

“I wish everyone associated with the club all the best for the future. I hope our paths will cross again!”

Barnet head coach Dean Brennan told the club website: “We have monitored Danny’s progress for a long time and we are really happy to sign him here.

“He is a very strong, technical defender and will add a lot of quality to the squad.”