Margate caretaker boss Steve McKimm has distanced himself from taking the role permanently as speculation mounts as to Robin Trott’s successor.

The board released Trott from his contract last week with veteran midfielder McKimm taking charge for Saturday’s rollercoaster 5-4 defeat to Folkestone Invicta during which Gate threw away a 3-1 lead despite Rob Haworth’s hat-trick in front of 552 at Hartsdown.

McKimm admitted: “It wasn’t the best start. Once again our inability to defend properly has cost us.

“This season we have lost three home games that we have been winning 3-1. It is not good enough and you can’t expect to compete with the likes of Chelmsford and AFC Wimbledon if you concede silly goals.”

McKimm was previously player/caretaker manager at Gravesend when Andy Ford departed in early 2005 and lost his first game in charge and then oversaw two wins during his short tenure.

Among those linked the vacant position are Terry Yorath, Chris Kinnear, George Borg, Whitstable Town boss Marc Seager and former Gate man Kevin Hales who left his assistant manager position at Rushden earlier this month.

However, 32-year-old McKimm says he has not put himself forward for consideration, saying: “I feel I can play on for one or two more years and I would like to go into management after that. I am not sure you can do both at once.

“I have not put my name in for it but I would possibly be interested if the situation came up.”

He said he was not sure whether the club would seek to bring in an experienced manager or another up-and-comer, but said: “It’s a tough decision to make – I am glad I don’t have to make it.”

McKimm is one of several senior players out of contract at the end of the season – with Jay Saunders, Jimmy Jackson and 25-goal top-scorer James Pinnock among those whose futures are in doubt.

He said: “I think the board will act sooner rather than later so the new manager can come in and decide which way he wants to go, if he wants to bring in his own players or keep players here.”

He added: “I am gutted that what happened has happened but I am grateful to Robin and the club who brought me here and gave me the opportunity on the coaching side.

“I spoke to Robin and got his blessing and he has done nothing but wish me and the boys well.”

Gate travel to Harrow Borough on Saturday lying 10th in the table and only able to climb or drop one position in the final standings.

McKimm said: “All we have left to play for is pride and dignity. We will have a look to see who we have at training and then a few of the squad members might get run-outs.”