WINSFORD United are hoping to name a new manager next week.

Chairman Mark Loveless has whittled down his shortlist to half a dozen hopefuls, although he has yet to decide who will take over following Dave Twite's departure.

He said: "To be honest the quality of candidates has been so good it's going to be tough to make a final choice.

"But I'm anxious to get someone in place as soon as possible."

He would not name those still in the race, but confirmed two candidates were from Manchester, another pair from Liverpool and two more from mid Cheshire.

There are no further interviews scheduled for this week.

Loveless said: "I want to make the best move for the good of Winsford United.

"And it's important they have as much time as possible to prepare for the new season."

He added that the ideal candidate would have UniBond experience.

"That is where we want to be," he said.

Helm

Twite left last month after three successful years at the helm at Barton Stadium.

His tenure came to an end by mutual consent following a meeting with Loveless.

The Blues finished fourth in the North West Counties Division Two last term, a disappointing result considering they had kept up with pacesetters FC United for much of the campaign.

But a run of two draws and a defeat in their final three matches consigned them to another crack at promotion this time around.