POOLE Town manager Tom Killick says he is determined to fend off rival clubs to retain the services of in-demand defender Michael Walker.

Dorset neighbours Weymouth are believed to be keen on tempting the Dolphins captain away from Tatnam during the close season.

Out-of-contract Walker, who lives in Weymouth, last week confirmed to the Daily Echo that he had yet to sign a new deal with Poole.

The centre-half, who scored eight goals in 50 appearances for Dolphins this term, skippered the club to title and promotion glory.

And despite Walker revealing that he could have other offers on the table, Killick insisted he wanted to keep the former Wimborne star for Poole's Premier Division campaign in 2013-14.

Killick told the Daily Echo: “He is our captain and he has been the cornerstone on which our success has been built. He is a very inspirational character and he has a big influence on and off the pitch.

“I certainly wouldn't want to lose him but because of the way he has played and the qualities he has, I am sure other clubs would be keen to have him.”

Walker helped Poole earn a place in the Southern Premier by leading them to the Division One South & West crown during a memorable season which also saw them claim the Dorset Senior Cup.

But he has so far refused to commit his future to Dolphins.

Walker said: “I am out of contract this summer and I have to sit down with the club and see what is going on. I have not signed anything yet so it is down to whether the club want to sign me.”