Player Viewpoint - Dartford FC defender Mark Arber

(Image: dartfordfconline.com)

Following Dartford's promotion to the Conference Premier last season, manager Tony Burman recognised the importance of bringing experienced heads into the squad. The signing of Mark Arber proved to be an inspired one.

The addition of 35-year old Arber to the squad enabled the very sure-footed development of the players around him. One particular beneficiary of his influence was centre-back Tom Bonner; awarded the players player award for the 2012/13 season and who has now gained a full-time playing contract at another club.

The South African born Essex Boy brought with him a wealth of Football League experience, notching up 600 professional appearances at clubs including Barnet, Peterborough and Dagenham & Redbridge. Arber had captained the latter club to a classic League Two play-off victory over Rotherham United in 2010, guiding them under the management of John Still to League One football for the first time in their history.

(Image: Hackney Gazette)

Following his exit from The Daggers, Burman pounced and completed what was regarded as a major signing for the club. Now after The Darts' fantastic season, I asked him what his thoughts are on it, how the standard compares to the Football League and what he sees happening for the club in the future...

Did you ever think it was possible to finish as high as the Darts have?

It is always possible. But when you tie all the elements in like work, training hours, recovery time and travelling, it is a remarkable achievement for all concerned.

What do you think have been the main challenges as a part-time outfit playing in a predominantly full-time league?

All of the above, but I don’t think we have fallen short in any of the things that should make a difference, like fitness and professionalism.

In terms of professional clubs you've played for, how would you say this side stacks up to them?

I think sometimes the temperament of the people within the club is more important than the quality of them. The lads have a great work ethic, which is a massive bonus to all.

How does the Conference compare to League 1/League 2 in terms of standard? How big is the gap?

In my opinion, it has grown a little since I last played in the Conference. I would say it’s a mini league within a league. The top 8 would cope in the league above, the middle 8 would struggle at times and the bottom 8 would have no chance of competing.

What was it that attracted you to the club? What were the deciding factors in signing?

I wanted a challenge. The challenge of being a part-time club who had just been promoted appealed to me. The objective was to stay in the league. We have passed that with flying colours.

What differences in your lifestyle have there been since going part-time?

More family time which is a massive plus, and being able to devote time to my coaching work at Arsenal.

What things would you say the club has got right, both on the pitch and behind the scenes, to enable you to finish so strongly? How does the administration and business side of the club compare to the professional sides you've played for?

The club has a solid fan base with a structure both on and off the pitch. It sets itself realistic targets with everyone pulling in the same direction. Things will get tougher because the underdog tag will no longer exist, but I believe the club has the potential to play league football in the next 5-10 years.

What do you and the players think is possible next? What do you think are the next important steps to take?

In the long run I think the club will need to go full-time to achieve their targets. Whether that will happen with the current crop I don’t know. The transition between the two will be a hurdle to jump but hopefully it can be achieved.