Ramsgate defender Dave Winfield says the game has changed vastly in the last 20 years as he continues to learn new tricks at 38

Ramsgate defender Dave Winfield says he’s still learning - even at the age of 38.

The big centre-half has enjoyed an excellent career, playing in the Football League for Aldershot, Wycombe, Shrewsbury and York.

He came to prominence in Kent with his three-year spell at Ebbsfleet, helping them to National League South play-off glory.

Winfield, who also counts Welling among his old clubs, completed a summer move to Ramsgate after briefly working with manager Ady Pennock on loan at Dartford from Hornchurch last season.

He’s delighted to be back in Kent and playing for Pennock, himself a former defender, at Southwood.

“I’ve settled in very well,” said Winfield. “I’ve tended to play my football quite a few miles away from home, so I’ve been used to travelling, but it’s nice to be a little bit closer.

“As the years roll on, I’m back home in 20 minutes. For recovery reasons, that is huge. Training is nice and local as well. Hopefully I can extend my career a little bit more.

“It’s nice playing for Ady. He understands what you need to do defensively but he’s also a great people guy. His man-management is very, very good. That’s what drew me to him in the first place.

“I’ve been speaking to him for a few years, actually, about signing for Dartford when he was there. The timing just wasn’t right. He’s fantastic with me, but he is with all the lads.

“I’m still learning now. I don’t think it’s a closed book.

“Even at my age and the amount of games I’ve played, you’ve still got to be open to criticism, as long as that’s constructive.

“You’re always learning. Football is an evolving game, isn’t it? Especially with all the new rules coming in.

“The game has changed vastly in the last 20 years and if you’re not adaptable, you will be