DOVER Athletic fans should discover the identity of the club's new first team coach within the next few days.

Chairman Mick Kemp is sticking to his timetable for announcements on a number of issues, and says a news release is still set for Friday or Saturday.

Mr Kemp was this week still talking to a number of candidates for the position of coach, as well as a possible new striker and two midfielders.

He has also met goalkeeper Paul Hyde to discuss a new contract and said: "I'm fairly hopeful Paul will sign. At present I'm in ongoing discussions with various people. Rather than announce one thing at a time I will announce it all together."

Hyde himself was confident he would sign a new deal but scotched rumours that he is set to become the first team coach. He said: "I have agreed a deal as a player for another year and we have talked about me becoming a goalkeeping coach at the club. There are just one or two things to be sorted out.

"I've still got a lot of life in me. I have spent five years at this club and it would be a good place to end my career."

FULL STORY IN THIS WEEK'S DOVER MERCURY