Sittingbourne manager Reece Prestedge working on new signings as Brickies prepare for trip to promotion rivals AFC Whyteleafe

Reece Prestedge is looking to strengthen his Sittingbourne squad this week.

The Brickies are on a superb run of eight wins and a draw in nine games under Prestedge’s management.

They’ve climbed from 12th to fifth in Isthmian South East and visit fourth-placed AFC Whyteleafe this Saturday (3pm).

Boss Prestedge could have new faces available for a big game against one of Sittingbourne’s promotion rivals.

He’ll see what he can do in a competitive market.

“We’ll probably look to bring in a couple, just to strengthen the squad, and we’ll go from there,” said Prestedge.

“You’re in that January period where teams at the top want to strengthen, teams at the bottom want to strengthen to try and get out of it, and mid-table teams have still got a chance to get in those play-offs, so they want to strengthen.

“So, market-wise, it’s probably a bit tough because it depends on who’s about and who wants to stay where they are.

“You’re probably looking in leagues above at who’s not playing, and who’s available, to come in and push for a promotion.”

Recruitment is an area of management Prestedge enjoys.

He’s added Joe Boachie, Zayshaun Asamoah, Ben Swift and Jamie Grossart to the squad since taking charge, all of whom have the characteristics he looks for in players.

“We make a shortlist of what we need to improve the squad and then see who’s about,” said Prestedge.

“I’ll be honest, it always boils down to who’s going to fit the changing room.

“If they come in and they don’t suit the changing room, then it can cause disruption and stuff.

“So far, we’ve brought in players who have done really well.

“I always prefer a chat rather than just messages because you get a sense if someone’s really interested and coming across as wanting to be