Dover are preparing for two Kent derbies in four days with boss Nicky Forster keen to return to winning ways – as well as ending recent speculation linking him with Northampton Town.

Northampton chairman David Cardoza confirmed Dover had refused him permission to approach their manager and the stories surrounding the Cobblers’ interest in Forster have coincided with a dip in Whites’ results.

Last Saturday’s 1-0 FA Trophy exit at Boreham Wood was Dover’s third consecutive defeat.

But Forster (pictured), whose side travel to Dartford in Blue Square Bet South on Saturday before hosting Bromley on Tuesday, was adamant the situation was nothing more than a coincidence, saying: "We have said all along that there would be no comment about Northampton from anyone at the club.

"My only concern was that I didn’t want anything to distract the players and there’s not been a single mention of it in the changing room, so I don’t think it has had any effect on our performances."

On Wednesday Northampton Town announced Aidy Boothroyd as their new manager.

Forster, whose side won seven of his first nine matches in charge, believes his side’s sudden defensive problems have been the main reason for their current blip.

He said: "The back four have been magnificent for most of the time I have been here but we have started leaking goals in the last few games and that’s something we need to address, especially as we are not one of the most prolific teams in front of goal."

Dover Athletic will seek to improve their goalscoring form this week.

Whites’ goals-for record of 11 in nine games at Crabble is one of the poorest in the division and they will be looking to boost that figure on Tuesday against a Bromley side who have conceded 25 on their travels – the worst record in the league.

But before that Whites face a much stiffer test at high-flying Dartford.

Forster added: "We will have to compete physically with Dartford, which is something you have to do sometimes before you can begin to play your football.

"We are looking to return to winning ways again and put some pressure on the teams above us in the play-off places."