Dorchester Town boss Mark Morris has been ruled out of the running for the vacant Weymouth manager's job, chief executive Martyn Harrison today revealed.

The Magpies manager headed a list of early contenders to take over from Steve Claridge who was sacked on Tuesday night.

But Harrison, who says the new man will concentrate solely on managerial duties, reckons Morris will not be heading over the Ridgeway.

He told Echosport: "Everyone will have their own ideas on who the new manager should be and that is perfectly understandable.

"The board have discussed the criteria we want our new manager to meet and we've decided that role will not be in a form of a player-manager, as Steve Claridge was.

"I have heard Dorchester manager Mark Morris' name mentioned with the post but while I respect what he has achieved at the Avenue, he is not an option.

"We have worked extremely hard recently to try and build a good relationship with Dorchester and I have made a lot of friends at the club.

"I don't want to do anything that could cause problems between us and seeking permission to talk to Mark would do that."

Morris heads a list of early contenders for the Wessex Stadium post which also includes Weston-super-Mare manager Frank Gregan and Tiverton Town boss Martyn Rogers who turned the job down last year.

Other names being linked include ex-Terras coach and former Exeter City manager Neil McNab, sacked Chester City boss Mark Wright and Yeovil Town coach Steve Thompson.

Harrison today declined to discuss any potential candidates but said Weymouth would not rush appointing Claridge's replacement.

Whoever does eventually take charge will have the dubious honour of becoming Weymouth's 18th manager in just 17 years.

"We're not in a hurry to make this appointment because we want to make it exactly right for the long-term future of Weymouth Football Club," Harrison said.

"The post will be advertised nationally after which we will draw up a shortlist and interview the candidates.

"We're not looking at anybody in particular at this time and have not sounded anyone out previously - we will wait and see who expresses an interest.

"But there has already been a big response in the last 24 hours which shows how highly Weymouth are regarded in the footballing world.

"Some of the names are of a very good pedigree and a lot of quality.

"I can promise the fans that we intend getting this appointment right and that may take a little time to do."