Hythe boss Fisk happy with the continuity within his squad - EXCLUSIVE

Hythe Town manager Paul Fisk has announced that three key players have signed contracts to stay at the Kent League club, writes Stephen McCartney.

Former Dover Athletic pair Michael “Buster” Smissen and Dale Skelton have renewed their contracts and former Ashford Town’s Scottish defender Barry Crawford, has also put pen to paper to stay at Reachfields Stadium.

“At the moment we haven’t got anyone coming in or leaving,” Fisk said EXCLUSIVELY to www.kentishfootball.co.uk today.

“But what we have got is Buster Smissen, Dale Skelton and Barry Crawford all signed on (contract) for next season.

“I’m expecting all the other lads to follow suit really. I’m still hopeful to sign another couple of players on top of that.”

Fisk admitted that he is happy with the players he already has at his disposal, but warned that they must graft during pre-season training.

Fisk admitted that he wants to see more off former Ashford Town and Rye United striker Aiden Pursglove, and former Folkestone Invicta striker Joe Neilson, next season.

“I’m quite happy really with what we’ve got at the moment,” he said. “We need to score a few more goals and (if) Aiden Pursglove gets a good pre-season (he) could come into the reckoning and I’m hoping Joe Neilson will get back at the club after breaking his leg.”

Hythe return to pre-season training on the first Thursday of July, and fitness coach Jason Harding will put the squad through its paces as they prepare for the new Kent League season, which kick’s off on Saturday, 11^th August.

“Jason really does the fitness side so he’s already worked out a programme that he will be doing with them,” said Fisk.

“It will be harder than last season but we’re lucky that Jason is a fitness instructor so he will take that side for us.”

Fisk, however, ruled out his side winning the Kent League title next season, but would like to better their top six finish.

He said: I wouldn’t say that (we will win the title). We finished sixth, we want to be in there competing with the top six.

“We want to be in the contention of finishing top six but it’s going to be a difficult season as they’re teams that will be improving - everybody’s hopes will be high.

Fisk explained why the Kent League transfer market is very quiet in June.

He said: “I think things will start when you get to pre-season. All of us at the club feel we’re quiet happy with the players I’ve got.

“I haven’t had to go round chasing players too much because I’m happy with what I’ve got and hope they are staying really.”

Visit Hythe Town’s website: www.hythetownfc.co.uk