Canterbury City manager Clive Cook says his squad is nearing completion as he continues preparations for his first season in charge.

Such is the back and forth nature of non-league transfer business that the former Hythe boss remains understandably keen to keep any potential arrivals under wraps.

Nonetheless, Cook has made no secret of his faith in those he has lined up to lead his long-term project at City.

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He said: “I’m keeping the incomings close to my chest for now. I’m nearly done. I’m really excited about the new squad which is almost done now barring about two players.

“There’s youth and experience, there’s everything that I wanted.

“I’ve got players that I’ve worked with before, and five or six who I haven’t but I know them and have watched them.

“I’ve been like a little spy seeing who’s who having watched a lot of football.

“My agreements (with potential signings) are word-based, everybody has given their word and that’s the way I do my business.

“I think you can word it better than a piece of paper can. It also shows the character of the lads.

“They have bought into what I want to do, they’re a very good level of players and have played at high levels. Let’s just see where we go with it.”

Two to depart from the existing group include Danny Lawrence and Chris Saunders, both of whom left last week to join former City boss Ben Smith at Herne Bay in Bostik South East.

Cook added: “Not many of the existing players have stayed, which is fine. I’d sooner know before we start. Their allegiances were with the previous manager which happens in football.

“I don’t really want to say too much about that other than that I wish them well.

“I spoke to Chris (Saunders). Some had already made their mind up to leave because of past history and that’s fine. Chris felt he was given an opportunity at another club. They’ve spoken to me and I respect that in any player.”

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