Andy Hessenthaler admitted Saturday’s 3-1 defeat at Weston-super-Mare was his worst day in charge at Dover.

The Whites boss, now in his third season at the club, apologised to the fans who made the long trip for the performance.

He said: "We were very poor, and I was bitterly disappointed. It wasn’t good enough and, being brutally honest, certain players are not good enough for this level."

Hessenthaler is planning a shake-up, but knows it won’t happen overnight. He added: "I have identified what we need to do, but I need to move a couple out to bring a couple in, so it won’t be a quick fix.

"I think it’s the time to do it, we are still in the hunt for the play-offs which was our target at the start of the season. We have achieved a lot in two years, but it’s been a reality check for us.

"Newport are the only consistent side in the league, which throws up results like Weymouth winning at Bishop’s Stortford."

Gillingham defender Tom Wynter is struggling with an ankle injury, the youngster’s loan spell due to end this weekend. Jon Wallis (hamstring) and Ollie Schulz (thigh) are both doubtful, while Jerahl Hughes will be out for up to a month with ankle ligament damage. Defender Craig Cloke, out for 14 months with cruciate knee ligament damage, could be back at Christmas.

Hessenthaler faces former club Dartford in the FA Trophy third qualifying round tie at Crabble on Saturday.