Nikki Bull's long term future as Margate manager is looking increasingly uncertain.

Bull was appointed until the end of the season following the sacking of Terry Brown in December and he has never hidden his desire to do the job on a long term basis.

Last week the 34-year-old urged the club to come to a decision about his future, but when pushed about his position after Saturday's home 2-1 defeat to Hayes & Yeading, Bull said he was unable to comment.

The former keeper explained: "It's been a very trying couple of weeks away from the football and I'm sure that statements will be made, and things will come out when the time's right but until then we just have to carry on and focus on doing the job on the pitch.

"I've spoken to the club and there's not too much I can say about what's gone on at the moment. When the time's right I'm sure the club will make the statements they need to make and the picture will become a lot clearer.

"Until that point I'm still focused as I have been both as a player and a manager on trying to be the best I can and working in as professional a manner as I can."

Bull made a flying start to his managerial career, winning eight of of his first 11 matches in Vanarama National League South, but Gate have lost their last five, three of which have been at Hartsdown.

That run has come about at the same time rumours have been circulating that owner Bob Laslett is about to quit leading to more speculation that the club's playing budget will be significantly reduced for next season.

Of the present playing squad, it is believed only six have contracts beyond the end of the season and Bull admits all the uncertainty is not helping him or his players. Saturday's defeat saw them slip to 12th, leaving them nine points clear of the relegation zone with seven games remaining.

Bull explained: "The one thing in a football club that isn't good is uncertainty. Certain rumours have been circulating around the club now for a good couple of weeks. I'm aware of them, my phone rings all the time making me aware of them.

"Its not easy, it's been a learning curve for me and I would not have swapped the experience for the world. It's a job I know I can do given the right circumstances but in the meantime I've just got to carry on."