Boss Darren Freeman has persuaded another player to commit his future to Lewes – his son Stacey.

Centre-back Stacey Freeman was on trial at Crawley Town at the end of the season after an impressive debut campaign with the Rooks.

League One side Fleetwood Town were also monitoring his progress while a top Ryman premier club had made a firm offer to the 22-year-old.

However, Freeman has now agreed a deal to continue playing under dad Darren at the Dripping Pan next season.

The Lewes boss said: “I thought we were going to lose Stacey to another club so I’m delighted to keep him.

“As he is my son, I let Ross (Standen, assistant) deal with him and I’m delighted he is staying.”

Lewes have already brought in Jamie Brotherton, Josh Jones, Sam Gore, Tom Vickers and Dan Perry this summer as well as retaining the bulk of last season’s squad.

Among the departures are last season’s leading scorer Jonte Smith to Welling United and former Albion youngster Leon Redwood.

Freeman added: “We are disappointed top lose Jonte but I have tried to add goals in wide areas with Jamie and Josh and I think Dan Perry will be a very good player for us.

“I am looking to bring one more forward in but we are there or thereabouts now.”