Welling poised to name new boss

Ford resigned after 20 months in charge at Welling

Welling United say they have received more than 50 applications for the vacant manager's job and hope to make a decision this week.

Having changed his mind about wanting the job permanently, caretaker boss Lee Protheroe put himself in contention after the Wings beat Lewes on Saturday.

Protheroe said he had not realised how much he would enjoy the role.

Other candidates include former Ebbsfleet assistant Alan Kimble and Wingate and Finchley boss Martin Hayes.

The ex-Arsenal midfielder spent nine years as manager of Bishop's Stortford, before moving to the Ryman North side in February.

Kimble was at Park View Road on Saturday to witness the Wings' 1-0 victory, which lifted them to 17th in Blue Square South.

"Without advertising, we've had 51 applications, " Welling general manager Barrie Hobbins told BBC Radio Kent.

"It's been very difficult to sift through and take out the weaker candidates.

He added: "If I had to put a date on it, it could be by next Saturday when we go to Worcester, certainly the very latest will be two weeks time."

"We're not under pressure to do it but we don't want it dragging on much longer."

The role became vacant when Andy Ford stepped down three weeks ago, after nearly two years in the job, saying he could take the Wings no further.