Manager Mickey Doyle will look to strengthen his squad for Lydd’s promotion challenge.

The Lydders have done Doyle proud in the first half of the Southern Counties East Division 1 season, sitting third going into the Christmas break.

But there’s always room to improve and Doyle, whose side return to action at Greenways on January 2, will keep an eye on the market.

“Like everyone, you can’t stop improving,” said Doyle, who saw Saturday’s game at FC Elmstead postponed due to a snow-covered pitch.

“People become available and we’ll assess that.

“You look at their character, what we want, and how we think they can fit in.

“I think we’ll look to add a couple, just to boost the squad and make sure we’re ready

for the second half of the season, as long as the quality is there.

“It’s up to the players to make sure they keep their shirt, otherwise there’s people in the background.

“You also don’t know if higher clubs are going to come in for your players.

“We’ve been doing pretty well this season, so it’s natural there’s interest in the lads.

“Of course, people are going to have a look, so we need to be covered in the event of that and also injuries.”

Lydd return to training on Wednesday in preparation for their first game of 2023.

“They’ve got a little fitness challenge to do over Christmas - nothing major - but that’s it until next week’s training session,” said Doyle.

“The boys work hard, let them enjoy their Christmas with their families.

“A lot of them are quite dedicated, so they do their runs, and a lot of them go to the gym religiously.

“Me and my management team, we’ll have a chat over a beer and get ready for the second half of the season. I’d like to wish everyone a merry Christmas.”