CHAIRMAN-elect Charlie Hewlett has denied Alex Pike is on the verge of replacing Graham Kemp as Lymington and New Milton manager.

Pike has been Kemp's assistant at Fawcett's Field after joining the New Milton outfit in a shock move from arch rivals Wimborne in March.

The FA Vase-winning boss has kept an uncharacteristically low profile since defecting to Linnets after being invited to the club by Kemp himself.

But after rumours abounded in non-league circles that Pike was going to be promoted last week, Hewlett, who will replace Terry Morris as Linnets chairman, was quick to scotch the speculation.

He said: "The committee have discussed no such move, there are no plans or discussions for Alex to be the manager.

"People have been saying things like this since Alex arrived but even if he wanted the job, it wouldn't mean he would get it.

"Graham deserves his chance. He's worked for nothing for a long time and he's one of only a couple of players who would play for nothing.

"It must cost him a fortune in time and money on phone bills and taking time out of work. He's got my total support.

"Graham has asked Alex to be the joint manager before but I think Alex is enjoying the role he has got.

"He can go home at 5pm, enjoy his family life without his phone ringing and relax.

"He's been very high profile and a great ambassador for Wimborne and had great success. But he seems to be enjoying having a bit of a breather and a nice rest.

"Graham is a very excitable boy, that's not detrimental, that's to his credit and he loves it. He is so for Lymington and New Milton Football Club, it screams from every pore.

"Alex comes with great credentials. Graham can lean on Alex but he can take or leave his advice and it will still be there.

"Alex becoming manager has never been mentioned at any meeting and I think Graham's done a good job in his first season and deserves it."