WIMBORNE will have a four-man shortlist in place ahead of Tuesday's home clash with Brockenhurst (7.45pm kick-off) as their search for a new manager intensifies.

Magpies boss Paul Arnold recently announced that he is to step down at the end of the season and the Cuthbury directors are hopeful that they will be able to announce their next manager after the Easter period.

Director Paul Miller said: "Ideally, we would still like someone in place before the end of the season to come in and work alongside Arnie and assess the players at the club.

"That may not be possible, but we hope we are at least in a position to make an announcement after the Easter break."

Some of the names leading the race are believed to be former Portsmouth defender Paul Hardyman, current Wimborne midfielder Christer Warren and former pro Alex Penney.

But the spectre of Alex Pike still looms and although he has not applied, his name is sure to be among those discussed.

Miller said: "We've had 15 applications and 10 of those we would consider as serious. But there are four names that instantly spring to mind and one of them hasn't applied for the job.

"It will be down to us to decide whether that person is then considered for the job."

Miller added: "We're looking for someone with a good knowledge of local players, someone who can work with most of the existing squad and can bring in some extra quality.

"Next season there will be a similar playing budget to this season, although there are some ground improvements planned."