Big blow for Dagenham & Redbridge as young defender Josh Staunton rejects new deal

DAGENHAM & REDBRIDGE boss John Still has received a blow after defender Josh Staunton turned down a new deal with the club.

Staunton joined the Daggers last summer after he was released by Charlton Athletic despite being a key part of the Addicks’ U21 side.

He initially featured in midfield for Dagenham but soon moved into his favoured centre-back position and also featured at right-back.

A common name in our National League Team of the Day last season, Staunton made 39 appearances for the Daggers and it was hoped he would remain at Victoria Road after forming a strong partnership with skipper Scott Doe at the heart of the defence.

However, the 21-year-old sees his future elsewhere and he decided to reject the offer of a new deal.

Boss Still has Doe, Luke Pennell and Craig Robson to call on at centre-back and he has already signed former Plymouth, Yeovil, Stevenage and Barnet man Bondz N’Gala this summer.

A Daggers statement read: “Josh Staunton has decided to turn down the offer the club made to him of a new contract and will begin looking for a new club.

“Dagenham & Redbridge FC would like to thank Josh for his services while at the club and we wish him all the best for the future.”