Retiring Deal Town stalwarts Kane Smith and Aaron Millbank to have services to club recognised ahead of friendly against Ramsgate; Hoops begin pre-season programme against Faversham Strike Force this Saturday

Two retiring Deal Town stalwarts are due to be recognised by the club.

Long-term injuries have meant defender Kane Smith and striker Aaron Millbank have hung up their boots.

Both have played integral roles at the Charles Sports Ground in recent years - Smith skippering them to the Southern Counties East League Premier Division title in the 2023/24 campaign, a season in which former Gillingham man Millbank was the club’s top scorer - but they won’t be signing for the Hoops ahead of their new season.

Deal will honour the role they have played ahead of Tuesday’s home friendly against Isthmian Premier Ramsgate, both also having spent time at the Rams during their respective careers.

“It seemed to make sense,” said boss Steve King, whose team begin their pre-season programme at home against Faversham Strike Force this weekend before the visit of Ady Pennock’s men.

“Both of those guys have had long-term injuries and have decided to call it a day. Most players retire towards the end of a season but we still wanted to make sure that they were both recognised.

“They have both been massive players for us, on and off the pitch, and we will be doing a presentation of signed shirts for them.

"Both of them had spells at Ramsgate, as well, so it just seemed quite fitting to use that game to recognise them and everything they have done for the club.

“Even though they have not played much in the last couple of years, they have been around.”

Smith’s last competitive appearance for the Hoops came in a season-ending 5-0 win over Broadbridge Heath in April 2025 while 31-year-old Millbank hasn’t laced up his boots since October 2024. They have still been around the Isthmian South East club, however, and King is hopeful that will remain the