Caretaker boss Barry Morgan has launched a major rebuilding job at Sheppey after being left without a side.

Ten players, including top scorer Dan Bradshaw, walked out following Kevin Hake’s dismissal. They’ve linked up with their old boss, who has taken up a director of football role at Rochester United.

Morgan has responded by signing experienced duo Roy Guiver and Damian Abel, along with youngsters Sam Hallett and Connor Weatherall, while John Ralph has returned.

Senior players Ricky Whiting and Ian Batten have stayed to boost Morgan, who has taken the chance to look at the club’s youngsters.

United have lost both matches under his charge – 3-1 against Sutton Athletic last Tuesday and 1-0 to Meridian on Saturday – but it will take time to get things right.

Morgan, whose team visit Eltham Palace on Saturday, said: “I didn’t know all the players would be leaving until the Sunday but it does us a massive favour because it allows us to have a look at the youngsters.

“I think people will realise it was for the best. Nobody wants to lose games but sometimes you have to lose a few to move forward.

“Who knows, we might even win a couple before the end of the season. We’ve been pleasantly surprised by a few of the younger players and we’ve brought in a bit of experience to help us out.

“If we get the Roy Guiver who's played a few hundred games in the Ryman League and Kent League, he’ll be a big asset.

“Damien has won Golden Boots at Ryman League and Kent League level – the man’s a machine."