The latest addition to Ebbsfleet’s coaching team hung up his boots to take up the role, although he admits he feels far from retired.

Stacy Long, who played in Ebbsfleet’s 2008 FA Trophy winning side, ended his playing career at Leatherhead of the Ryman Premier League last month to answer Fleet’s call.

Since leaving Stonebridge Road in 2009, the midfielder has turned out for Stevenage Borough and AFC Wimbledon.

Long has racked up more than 200 appearances, including almost 130 for Ebbsfleet, and now he is back in north Kent with boss Daryl McMahon.

He said: “Before I joined Leatherhead, I worked with Daryl when he was the academy manager, so this is a little bit like coming home.

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“I am working with the academy and helping with player development in the U21s.

“I am also going out to watch games for the club, looking at the talent that is out there.”

He added: “It’s a great opportunity for me because I always hoped to stay in football after retiring rather than spend time behind a desk in an office.

“Although I am spending so much time on the training pitch it doesn’t feel like I have retired at all.”

Following Saturday’s 2-1 victory at Eastbourne Borough, Ebbsfleet are five points clear at the top of the National League.

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Long said: “These are good times at Ebbsfleet, but there is a very long way to go and we all know football can change very quickly.”

When the 30-year-old looks back on his career, there are two standout moments.

“Playing in the FA Trophy final was obviously a big moment, to win a trophy at Wembley is a fantastic moment for any player,” he said.

“I had some good times playing for Stevenage, and especially remember playing against Charlton Athletic in front of a full house at the Valley.

“Having started out at Charlton as a trainee, that was a special moment, even though we lost.”

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