Hockaday signed a new contract with Forest Green in May

Blue Square Bet Premier side Forest Green Rovers are reverting their whole squad to full-time status.

Rovers, who lie 23rd in the top flight of non-league football, have been operating with a mix of full-time and part-time professionals since May.

"It will make the world of difference," Rovers manager Dave Hockaday told BBC Radio Gloucestershire.

"We can plans things better, create a better coaching environment and the players will be fitter."

Hockaday added: "I can't thing of anything negative to say about going full-time."

As a result of the change, striker Reece Styche and midfielder Yan Klukowski will become full-time professionals.

"We're delighted to have them on board full-time," said Hockaday. "They have had to show a commitment to the club as the club has in them.

"This has to be a step in the right direction for them and they can only improve."

Hockaday has also been able to appoint Gary Seward as his assistant manager.

"We've known each other for over 30 years," said the Rovers boss. "He's very good at boardroom level, he's very good at politics and organisation.

"He's very good at getting an overall view and he will take some of the weight off my shoulders.

"He's already out looking at games from leagues that I did not know existed. Recruitment is one of his major strengths."

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