DORCHESTER Town manager Craig Laird has hailed the signing of teenage winger Dom Panesar-Dower, saying the diminutive midfielder gives the club “something slightly different”.

Panesar-Dower, 19, who played for Weymouth last season, caught boss Laird’s eye when he made an appearance off the bench in the Terras’ Dorset Senior Cup triumph over Gillingham in April.

And Laird told Echosport he is looking forward to working with the youngster, who he says will bring “youth and energy” to the Magpies’ squad.

He said: “I was impressed with him in the cup final. He came on as sub and looked like he had good potential. He’s got to try and develop it and realise it.

“I think he’s going to bring youth and energy and he’s a good lad for his age and someone that we can build with and make him a better player.

“He’s got a low centre of gravity, he’ a good signing for us and (offers) something slightly different.”

Former Poole Town player Panesar-Dower is one of a number of midfielders to have arrived at the Avenue Stadium this summer and Laird is relishing the increased competition for places.

“I’ve said to all the lads that they have to earn their position.

“Dom has got the determination, focus and dedication and I’m sure it won’t be a problem for him. I have got to look to pick the best 11 and that’s what I’ll endeavour to do.

“It will make all the players strive to be better. They won’t be resting on their laurels – it can only be good for everyone.

“We need that in the squad and we need competition. They will need to throw their hats in the ring,” Laird said.

Laird also revealed that Panesar-Dower fits into the mould of player he has been trying to recruit all summer as Dorchester search for the best youthful and local talent.

He said: “We’re trying to build for the future and we’d like to keep Dom for as long as we can.

“We’re trying to plan for three or four years down the road as it’s only going to put us in good stead."