Richard Hill today offered public thanks to his Whitehawk bosses as he bids to stop the rot.

Hill took his tally of signings to seven in his first week in charge as he brought in an experienced trio yesterday.

All three additions were completed before midday to ensure they are available for today’s FA Cup tie at East Thurrock.

Former Albion, Southampton and Nottingham Forest left-back Dan Harding, ex-Barnsley defender Paul Reid and much-travelled midfielder Glen Southam could all make their debuts in the second qualifying round tie.

Hill had already made four signings ahead of the 2-0 league win at high-flying Hampton and Richmond in midweek.

He is grateful to the backing of president Chris Gargan and directors John Summers and Peter ‘Ned’ McDonnell – and not just financial.

Hill said: “Give credit to Ned, Chris and John for allowing me to do this within a budget we have to stick to. I identified we needed to stop the rot and they allowed me to bring in some new faces.

“They won’t be coming here and playing for nothing – although Dan is close to nothing, being local.

“I’m grateful for the practical help they have given me as well because you don’t sign seven players in four days without working hard.”

The Argus:

Paul Reid will play centre-back for Hawks

Hill said of the latest trio to sign: “They are good players. They worked with me before.

“I need to hit the ground running as manager. I felt the way to do that was to bring in people who I’ve worked with.

“They are good players and also good people, which is very important to me.

“Dan worked with me at Eastleigh. When I got the job here, he texted me to say well done and I thought I’d put it out there to him. Would he be interested in playing here?

“I think he saw it as an opportunity to enjoy his football with someone he knows.”

"I’ve known Paul since he was 19. When you know somebody for that long, even on a player-to-coach basis, it becomes a friendship.

“Paul had finished playing. But then the opportunity to come and play here came.

“Glen has been around for a long time.

“He could be the best signing of the three of them.

“He is a good addition because he is good at bringing a bit of togetherness to the squad.

“He trains hard and works hard. He can be a nuisance too – but they all can.”

Hill has not ruled out more signings with summer additions made by his successor Pablo Asensio, mostly from overseas, at risk.

Goalkeepers Lucas Covolan, currently first choice, and Adri Munoz appear safe for now as they are under contract.