EBBSFLEET UNITED'S Peter Hawkins says the club must keep the bulk of the squad together in order to have a realistic chance of promotion next season.

The 28-year-old has signed on for next season and is looking forward to once again pairing up with captain Paul McCarthy in the centre of defence.

He said: "We had a good season last year. Hopefully we can go one better."

McCarthy has also signed a new contract and Hawkins believes the duo's experience has helped the squad's younger players.

He added: "We've played at a higher level than most of the players so it is good to help them out and hopefully they can learn from us."

Manager Liam Daish is still in negotiations with a number of players - including Mark DeBolla, Jon Keeling and Ross Smith - but Hawkins is hopeful they will all stay.

He added: "The more players that stay from last year, the better. We know how each other plays and had a good bond."

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