Burman believes his squad can survive in Blue Square South next season

Dartford manager Tony Burman believes most of his players will adapt well to Blue Square South football next season.

The Darts were promoted from the Ryman Premier on Saturday, after wrapping up the title with six games to spare.

"I've been fortunate enough to sign some players who've come out of [Blue Square South] last year," Burman told BBC Radio Kent.

"We've also got some good young players who I think will hold their own. But without the hard work it won't happen."

He added: "It doesn't matter if it's in Ryman North, the Ryman Premier or the Blue Square, your players have got to want to work for you."

I'm hoping that we don't see [Dartford] because hopefully we're going to get promoted Dover Athletic boss Andy Hessenthaler

One man who knows about the transition to Conference football is Dover Athletic boss Andy Hessenthaler.

His side have secured a Blue Square South play-off place in their first season in the league, as they go in search of their third consecutive promotion.

"It is a big gap - bigger gap than I thought," Hessenthaler warned Burman.

"It's all about having a squad. If you've got one with a bit of depth then you'll be OK.

"Tony Burman knows non-league football like the back of his hand. He's been in it for so long, played in it and he'll know what he's got to do.

"I'm hoping that we don't see him because hopefully we're going to get promoted. But if we don't, then it'll be a tremendous derby next year," Hessenthaler added.

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