Ramsgate boss Jim Ward has been impressed with the impact new head coach Ian Cox has made only days after arriving at Southwood.

The 44-year former Crystal Palace, Burnley and Gillingham defender's appointment followed a chat with chairman Phil Fennell.

Ward said: "They were talking, and Ian showed an interest in getting involved.

"He is a proper athlete and knowledgable, and he and assistant Tom Hickman have already put the boys through some good sessions, and it has been great for the lads."

Ward believes all the Kent clubs in the Ryman League Division 1 South must have an eye on at least reaching the play-offs in the coming season.

He said: " There are eight teams there in the county, and none in the Premier Division.

"It is a great opportunity to get promotion, and it is all about having the ambition to get there."

Ward says he is a defender and midfield player short of the squad he wants ahead of the new season.

"I probably say that before the start of every season, but there is a lot of money out there, and I think budget wise we are somewhere in the middle." he said.

"I have also got five under-21 youngsters knocking on the door. The youth coaches are doing a fantastic job, and got things really spot-on."