VITAL members of Dover Athletic's squad are waiting to see how events unfold at the Hoverspeed Stadium in the next few weeks before committing to the club.

Player of the Year Tony Browne, goalkeeper Paul Hyde and midfielder Matt Carruthers are refusing to make any decisions while issues such as who will be picking the team next season, and in what capacity, remain uncertain.

Chairman Mick Kemp has indicated that Dover will not have a 'manager' as such next season, but a first team coach. The individual's identity, and whether he will have the final say over team selection, should be revealed soon.

Browne, who had an outstanding season in his new role at sweeper, said: "It's a difficult decision. Obviously I love the club and we have been going through a bit of a bad patch.

"The club have offered me another contract. They say they are looking to get promoted. I have always wanted to play at the highest level I can.

"We were all shocked with what has been going on, what with failing to make the Conference South, players leaving and then being told there would be no manager next season."

The club would be left without an experienced goalkeeper if Hyde decides to reject his new contract.

Dave Wietecha was one of eight Whites players released last week. Hyde lost his place to Wietecha for a period last season, although Wietecha subsequently suffered with injuries.

Hyde said: "The club have made me an offer but I want to speak to them again before I sign anything.

"It's not just about money. I need to know what's going to happen over things like who will be picking the team, and what players will still be here. You can build a club around youngsters, but you must have some experienced players as well.

"Anybody who says that I am too old at 40 is talking rubbish. How many games did I miss through injury this season, and how committed am I still to playing? Anyone who watches Dover regularly knows the answer to those questions.

"I would like to stay because I love this club, and I think I have got a lot to offer in terms of coaching our youngsters, especially on the goalkeeping side.

Carruthers says he is trying to forget about football for a while before deciding on his future.

He said: "I'm just chilling out at the moment. I don't know what's going on. People wind down their car windows and tell me things that I didn't even know. I should be informed but no-one seems bothered."

Carruthers has been approached by Welling United, who have already signed Jamie Day following his release from Crabble.

The midfielder said: "Welling are in Conference 2, and I only live a couple of minutes from their ground."