GRAVESEND & Northfleet could turn to former Wycombe Wanderers assistant manager Peter Cawley in their search for Andy Ford's successor.

Tony Adams, the former Arsenal and England captain, has recommended his former No 2 at Wycombe to the Fleet board who are expected to make an announcement before Saturday's match at Carlisle.

Cawley, 39, who lives in Colchester, is a former central defender who played for Wimbledon, Fulham, Bristol Rovers, Southend, Exeter and Barnet. He holds the required UEFA A and B coaching badges and holds a degree in sports medicine.

It's been revealed that two leading candidates were interviewed on Sunday, and club secretary Roly Edwards believes the club will be in a position to announce Andy Ford’s successor in time for him to take his first training session next Thursday.

Mr Edwards said: "We all expect to know a bit more by Tuesday. We’re not far off making a decision. It's all down to agreeing terms."

Fleet joint caretaker manager Steve McKimm, who took charge for Saturday’s FA Trophy, fourth round tie, is convinced the new man will be appointed quickly. He confirmed: "Somebody will be in charge by the weekend."

On the evidence of Saturday’s poor performance, the Fleet’s need for a new manager assumed even greater urgency as the side struggled to overcome Histon, a mid-table Southern League, Premier Division club.

* Fleet have been draw at home to Slough of the Ryman League, Premier Division in the fifth round of the FA Trophy on February 26.