Rams set for new additions - EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Ramsgate boss Jim Ward has revealed he is set to sign a defender early this week as he prepares for their Ryman Premier League campaign, writes Stephen McCartney.

However, the Scot kept his cards close to his chest in identifying his target but did revel he will entice a midfielder to the Southwood Stadium club before the start of the season.

Fans’ favourites Dean Hill and Stuart Vahid have both extended their stay at the club, having signed two-year contracts that will keep them at the club until 2008.

Both players were both frequent winners of the man-of-the-match polls.

In an EXCLUSIVE interview with www.kentishfootball.co.uk Ward revealed: “They were both under contract before and they’ve just extended their contracts by another year.”

The pair join striker Shaun Welford, Ollie Schulz and recent signing from Leathehead, Warren Waugh on two-year deals.

“I’m looking to sign one more player and that will do me and then I can go on my holidays and enjoy myself,” said Ward, whose led the club to two titles in the past two seasons.

“I might not sign them now but I will before the season starts. Then I’ll feel confident going into the next division.”

Last season's goalkeeper’s Jurgen Wild and Danny Twyman will have to fight for the number one jersey.

“I’ve decided to stick with the two goalkeepers I had last year,” revealed Ward. “Both Danny and Jurgen will both be fighting for the green jersey next year as Danny has moved back to the area. They are both good goalkeepers.”

Ward admitted his “best signing” is the return of coach Mark Harrop.

“He will be my best signing,” he said. “Just because what he brings to the club - professionalism, he’s a good coach, very knowledgeable and he doesn’t let the players get away with anything.”