WELLINGTON’S football manager Clive Jones has stepped up his search for new players barely days after the season officially ended, writes Barry Knott.

Jones has made a centre back his top priority although young Tom Hawkings has confirmed he will be playing for Wellington next season.

Hawkings, who suffered a broken bone in his foot at the end of February which required surgery, is also a talented rugby player and Jones

has welcomed the news he will be playing the round ball game next winter.

“This is good news for me and I am currently having talks with two players - and I’m hopeful about these,” said Jones.

“Tom can become a good centre-half - but it is up to him to be the best. It is all to do whether you want it or not.

“We are a young side and so I would like to sign an experienced midfield player and, of course, I would like a new striker. But then every club wants a striker.

“I have already said I want all the present first team squad to stay - but I want more commitment from some players.

“I cannot keep changing the side every week because players are unavailable. You cannot win anything without commitment.”

Wellington ended the season in 16th place in the premier division of the Toolstation League - and that was a disappointment for Jones who wanted to finish higher than the previous season.