Ebbsfleet boss Garry Hill may dip into the loan market to complete his squad in the final week before the season starts.

He’s hoping to sign three more players before FC Halifax visit Stonebridge Road next Saturday with strikers top of his list.

Hill has already brought nine players to the club this summer and his transfer dealings aren’t finished yet.

He said: “We’re still a little bit down on numbers but the funds are there. As we know, the budget’s been restructured but I’ve got funds available.

“Where are we light? Up top, forwards. That’s an area where I would like to fetch some more strength into the club.

“I think we’re taking shape defensively; probably one more centre-half away from where I’d like to be.

“I look at options with Ayo (Obileye), whether he’s a centre-half or a midfield player, he gives you that versatility. Bally (James Ball) gives you, if you really want, versatility at the back but if you said to me today, where am I looking, I would definitely say three or four have got to come in: one more defender, one more quality in midfield and two more forwards.

“I think I am close on one and I’d definitely consider the loan market.”

Hill did add to his squad this week in the shape of former Charlton striker Josh Umerah.

Umerah spent 11 years with the Addicks but only played for the first team three times and was loaned out to Kilmarnock, Wycombe and Boreham Wood.

Ebbsfleet host a Brighton & Hove Albion XI in their final pre-season friendly on Friday, kick-off 7.30pm.

Hill said: “I can already see a picture of what I will do against Halifax, depending on who we sign.

“I’ve got a certain amount of finance available still where I’ve picked and chosen what I’ve signed.

“The players I have signed for the football club are good signings. I’ve signed some experienced players who are proven and will, I’d like to feel, be part of a competitive squad.

“It can all change in a matter of a day or half an hour.

“I’ve got areas where I feel we’ve got to be better and I’m talking to players and their representatives. The players I have in mind, if I can get them over the line, will make us more competitive.”

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