Aslan Odev wants striker David Smith to decide on his Sittingbourne future by the end of the week.

Boss Odev would like to keep the teenager, who has been on trial elsewhere, but needs an answer soon.

He said: "He needs to make a decision and it will be a case of giving him an ultimatum so we know what direction we're going in and we're both happy.

"I want David Smith to stay but, at the same time, I can't wait for ever.

"It's a case of making sure we get a decision. Hopefully we'll know by the end of this week."

Sittingbourne reported back for pre-season at the weekend.

That meant a first chance to work with Riccardo De Vivo, who's on board in a dual role as fitness coach and sports psychologist.

De Vivo, who also holds a UEFA A coaching badge, has made an early impression.

Odev said: "He's doing a masters degree in strength and conditioning and he already has a masters in psychology, so it's killing two birds with one stone.

"He's very good. The players have been asking him to do one-to-one stuff as well.

"Fitness is a big thing. You want to try and hit the ground running and a lot of that is to do with preparation.

"That means making sure players are fit and ready and have the right mentality, so they understand their roles and responsibilities.

"The players were responsive, you could see they were trying to prove something. There was a good vibe."

Sittingbourne were due to hold their second session on Tuesday but it was switched to Monday to avoid clashing with the England versus Colombia World Cup tie.

Odev said: "I couldn't make them train Tuesday.

"I know there would have been a lot of excuses, so it was best to move the session."

Bourne travel to Bearsted for their opening friendly this Saturday.

Odev is set to field a different side in each half, mixing trialists in with his first-team squad.

He said: "We'll see how we go but I'd like to give everyone a fair go and find out those who are good enough and show the traits we want."

Kick-off will be brought forward to finish in time for England's World Cup quarter-final against Sweden and Brickies host Forest Hill on Tuesday night.