Whitstable Town manager Justin Luchford hopes to make two new signings before this weekend’s visit of Corinthian Casuals.

The new Oystermen boss is in the market for a new striker to help partner Stuart Vahid up front, while a strong central defender is also required after Luchford has watched his side concede eight goals in the two games he has been in charge so far.

Town slipped to their second 4-1 defeat in a week, this time at Godalming last Saturday, and Luchford (pictured) is clear about where his new charges need to improve.

He said: "There is a huge issue with fitness and it’s something the players will admit to.

"For 60 minutes at Godalming we were in it and then all of a sudden we ran out of puff all over the pitch and they stepped it up and scored three more goals.

"It’s a lack of belief and organisation at set-pieces that is hurting us.

"We conceded three at Chipstead and one at Godalming and that is what is concerning me right now.

"We have worked hard in training on both fitness and set-pieces and the good thing is that the players recognise it is an issue as well.

"It was disappointing but was a massive improvement from the Chipstead game and I have said that it is important that I see an improvement every week."

Luchford takes charge of Whitstable at the Belmont for the first time on Saturday and has called for the club’s supporters to give his side time as he looks to make his mark.

He said: "What I do not want them to do is judge us too early.

"We have three home games in a row against sides in the top 10 and I don’t want to the players to feel they don’t stand a chance against them.

"We are in a period of transition and we know we are going to be up against it."

Whitstable will be without Dane Luchford for the visit of Corinthian Casuals after the forward tweaked a groin at Godalming, while defender Marc Cumberbatch is in line for his home debut after signing last week.

Meanwhile, James Simmons has left the club and is expected to sign for Kent League side Canterbury City.