Ashford United interim boss Alan Walker with the latest on the club’s search for a new manager as takeover nears

Alan Walker says there’s been big interest in the Ashford manager’s job.

Walker completes his nine-match spell as interim boss on Saturday (3pm) when the Nuts & Bolts host Broadbridge Heath in their final Isthmian South East game of the season.

He’s been interviewing candidates for Kevin Watson’s successor and advising the prospective new owners, with a takeover expected to be completed by the end of May.

“We’ve spoken to quite a few possible managers and we’ll be letting people know who that’s going to be,” said Walker.

“At the moment the takeover is in the balance in terms of the deal hasn’t been signed.

“Until it’s signed on the dotted line, which is due to happen in a few weeks’ time, we can’t really say who’s going to be the manager.

“At the moment, Don (Crosbie, owner and co-chairman) is in charge of the club.

“He’s the main man and I’m still working for Don.

“He’s been absolutely fantastic, so supportive, as has Derek (Pestridge), the other chairman.

“I’m not actually choosing the manager.

“I’ve just been speaking to a few people and reporting back to the new owners and they’ll make a decision very shortly.

“I’ve approached some people but the vast majority have come to us. There’s been a lot of interest in the job.

“Don’s had calls off a few people, and they’re ones we know as well, but we’re not interested in those.

“With respect, we believe we can get people who will be better at it.”

Walker has enjoyed his brief return to the dugout after 14 years out of management since leaving Maidstone in 2010, although it’s confirmed how much the game has changed.

He’s been assessing the squad alongside assistant manager Darren Hare, with the pair giving young players a chance to show what they can do with next season in