Hythe chairman Paul Markland is refusing to comment on speculation linking the club with another bid to sign Maidstone’s Shaun Welford.

The former Dover striker (pictured) turned down a move to Reachfields around transfer-deadline time in March, but talk persists that boss Scott Porter could be ready to renew his interest this summer.

Mr Markland said: “Rumours will always circulate, I haven’t had a chance to talk to Scott, but I am sure he is already planning ahead. Budgets will be discussed in the next few weeks.”

Meanwhile, Mr Markland says the possible inclusion of Combined Counties League runners-up Guernsey into an expanded 24-team Ryman League Division 1 South next season will create an “interesting challenge” but believes logistics including travelling, will leave away sides at a disadvantage.

The Channel Islanders’ promotion was due to be discussed by the FA National Leagues Committee on Wednesday. The committee were set to provisionally decide the allocation of clubs for next season from Steps 1-7.

Mr Markland added: “Guernsey have had problems with their pitch this season. I think there could be considerable problems if sides had to travel there midweek.

“I made my feelings known to the Ryman League and they were passed onto the FA. I think other chairmen agree with me, but across the league it’s 50-50.”