League champions Hearts of Oak have intensified the search for a substantive head coach following the departure of Kostadinov Dobrev.

The Romanian's contract was not extended even though he won the title for the OneTouch Premier league title for the Phobians last season.

Abdul Karim Zito was appointed as coach of the side and could have been promoted to head coach if he had impressed.

But a disastrous pre-season and a faltering start to the league campaign means Hearts are in the market for a substantive coach.

''We have spoken to six coaches both local and foreign," Hearts vice chairman Frank Nelson revealed to Ghanasoccernet.com.

"At this moment we don't want to disclose any names because some coaches wouldn't like their manes to be mentioned when talks are being held.

''We need a competent coach and not necessarily a whiteman or a foreigner.''

He also added that: ''We cannot give a fixed date for the new coach but I think a choice will be made before the league goes on a break for the Nations Cup.''

Kessben FC's assistant coach, Isaac 'Opeele' Boateng, whose has been linked to the job has turned off the switch.

The Phobians have been unconvincing this season after amassing four points from three games and that has piled a lot of pressure on AbdulKarim Zito,who is in acting capacity.