Speculation surrounding the future of Nicky Forster is still lingering as the new Dover boss continues to be linked with the vacant manager’s job at Northampton Town.

Forster’s name has been mentioned by bookmakers and supporters in connection to the Sixfields role ever since Gary Johnson’s departure earlier this month. When questioned earlier this week on rumours he was on the Cobblers’ shortlist, though, Forster made no comment.

Former Blackburn and England goalkeeper Tim Flowers took over as Northampton caretaker manager on Tuesday, although chairman David Cardoza stressed the appointment was "until further notice as our search for a new permanent manager continues."

Having replaced Martin Hayes at the Crabble in September, Forster (pictured) admits the Whites are unlikely to mount a championship charge after last Saturday’s 3-0 home defeat to Blue Square Bet South leaders Woking.

He said: "It was a good test for us. It shows where we are and we know we’re not capable, at this stage, of winning the league.

"There are a lot of teams similar to us, chasing those play-off spots and how we do against the sides around us will go a long way to deciding where we finish."

Boreham Wood, who beat the Whites 4-2 seven days earlier, again provide the opposition for Forster’s side when the FA Trophy returns to the agenda this weekend.

He said: "The FA Trophy is a big tournament for us. It’s a realistic chance of getting to Wembley."