ANDY Ford has signalled his intent to put the brakes on Welling’s recent slump by immediately introducing new goalkeeper David Wilkinson into the starting line-up for tonight's game at St. Albans City.

Wilkinson has joined Welling on loan from Crystal Palace until the end of April and is regarded as a promising young keeper who Ford is hoping will bring his full-time experience to the Wings’ backline.

The signing of seasoned goalkeeper Charlie Mitten has also bolstered Ford’s squad as they try to maintain their fight for the much sought after play-off places.

Ford was forced into the goalkeeping change around after Clark Masters was handed a trial by Grimsby Town and Jamie Turner’s recent departure to Ramsgate.

The manager said: “We thought we would have Clark Masters on loan for the season, but he wants to go to Grimsby and have some trials there.

“I couldn't stand in his way, so that is why he has left.

“Charlie Mitten has been out of action for four or five weeks with a broken toe.

“I have let Jamie Turner go and Clark has gone back, so I just wanted to make sure we are in a strong position from a keeper point of view and Charlie is going to come along and get himself fit.

“Wilkinson will definitely start against St. Albans.”

The promotion dream has faded a bit in the New Year and Ford is hoping the changes will instil some new life into this season's ambitions.

His focus on strengthening the defence has also been evident with the recent signing of central defender Gavin Dayes from Grays Athletic.

And Ford indicated he hadn't finished tinkering with his squad just yet.

After working on their defensive problems, his attention has now turned to the attack.

He said: “We signed Gavin Dayes last week at centre half, so that is all at the moment but we are actually looking for a couple of strikers.

“However, I haven't got anything on that at the moment."

Meanwhile, midfielder Dorian Smith has joined Harrow Borough on loan for a month.