Welling have revealed that they may not have a new manager in place before Saturday's Blue Square South game at home to Lewes.

The Wings were hoping to appoint a new boss to replace Andy Ford, who resigned on October 12, this week.

But, having gone through nearly 50 applications, general manager Barry Hobbins (pictured) said that a decision could be delayed.

"We've got a shortlist and the interviews are due to start on Wednesday," he said.

"We had hoped to get someone in place before the weekend but that may not be possible now.

"We want to take our time and make sure that we get the right man."

Mr Hobbins admitted that there was no rush as the Wings have been impressed by caretaker boss Lee Protheroe.

"The team is in safe hands with Lee," said Mr Hobbins. "He is very enthusiastic and seems to have lifted the players.

"We're still looking for a young and ambitious manager, we need someone who has had a good grounding and knows the level that we're at."

The shortlist is believed to consist of six candidates, including former Bishop's Stortford boss Martin Hayes who was among a number of late applicants.

Also thought to be in the running are former Ebbsfleet assistant manager Alan Kimble and Glenn Cockerill, who just missed out on landing the job when Ford was appointed in January 2008, but Sittingbourne boss Gary Abbott is expected to be overlooked.