OUT-GOING Winchester City manager Neil Hards has recommended coach Steve Moss as his ideal successor.

During last season's glory days when City marched to an FA Vase/Wessex League/League Cup treble, Hards pointed to Moss's coaching skills as one of the keys.

A bubbly character, the 36-year-old joined the City Ground in September 2003 after a brief stint as team boss of Ryman Division 1 outfit Molesey. His playing career included stops at Southampton, Woking, Camberley, Worthing and Newport IoW.

Hards confirmed: "I've recommended Mossy to the club. He's the perfect candidate.

"If he took over, the disruption would be minimal.

"He knows the players inside out, he's got loads of contacts and he's an excellent coach."

Despite major upheavals this season, Winchester are still heading the title race on goal difference from Lymington & New Milton, but their fans must fear it will all fall apart when Hards goes.

All the more reason, according to the boss, to promote his good mate.

He said: "I think they'd have a massive chance of keeping the players if Mossy stays - and even more so if Ryman football is achieved."

Winchester, away to Andover tonight, will again be without the suspended Mark Jones and injured duo Adam Rogers and Ian Buckman, while Mark Smith has work commitments.

"We've had to deal with these sort of problems all the way through. We'll give it all we can tonight," said Hards.

Lymington tomorrow travel to an in-form Moneyfields side who have won their last five games.

"It's not an easy place to go," admitted boss Ian Robinson.

"I've only ever won there once when I was with Totton."

Linnets may again be without midfielder Chris Smith (bruised foot).