Testimonial time for loyal Friend

Folkestone Invicta’s testimonial efforts for captain Liam Friend are kicking off next month at the Ryman South club’s end of the season presentation night.

Invicta’s officials announced on Monday that the event on Saturday May 10 will also incorporate a dinner for the 26-year-old defender, pictured, who has been at Cheriton Road for 12 years and was handed the captaincy this season by manager Neil Cugley.

Friend, who won the club’s Derek Knight Trophy Young Player of the Year in each of his first two seasons after breaking into the first team, has now made nearly 400 appearances for the Kent oufit after spurning numerous offers from other clubs.

A club spokesman said: "He has stayed loyal to Invicta through thick and thin despite a string of offers from elsewhere and richly deserves this accolade."

Premier League bound striker Johan Ter Horst will also be at the awards night to make his farewell speech before leaving to join FA Cup finalists Hull City.

For more information on tickets contact club officials.