DORCHESTER Town chairman Matt Lucas has hailed the impact of the “thoroughly meticulous” Magpies’ boss Steve Thompson.

Thompson joined the county town side in mid-September and has quickly become a fans’ favourite thanks to an improvement in results and performances, plus the implementation of a high-tempo playing style.

And such is the scale of Thompson’s presence at the club, Lucas insisted the former Yeovil manager had been a “breath of fresh air” since taking over the reins.

He told Echosport: “With regards to the appointment of Steve we’re really pleased about his daily work.

“He’s an absolute worker and thoroughly meticulous – no stone is left unturned. He’s very dedicated to his football with regards to his training methods and his attention to detail.

“He’s an absolute breath of fresh air around the club and we feel very fortunate in having Steve. On a personal level he’s a joy to work with.”

Lucas also admitted that Thompson’s approach to football had galvanised both the supporters and the playing squad and is looking forward to the Magpies showcasing their talent on the club’s new 3G pitch next season.

He said: “It’s great that Steve has actually brought a product of high pressing and high energy. That’s good for all the supporters because it makes for an attractive game to watch and I think all the players have set to Steve’s views on the game.

“His results and the way the team has played since he came in speaks for itself. Players in the squad will really flourish on the 3G pitch.

“We’ve got some good ball players and the pitch will really enable the players to showcase their best skills.”

But it is during pre-season when Lucas expects Thompson to be able to make his most telling contribution while at the Magpies’ helm.

The Dorchester boss is able to build a squad of his choosing for the first time in his tenure.

He said: “We’ve all said that it would be great to have Steve have his own pre-season with the club.

“Last season he came in the middle of the season and to a certain extent there’s only so much that can be done.

“With Steve having a pre-season he’s been meticulous with his planning for it, both he and Trevor (Senior, assistant-manager) and the backroom staff have discussed it in detail.

“That should bode well for us when the season starts again.”

Meanwhile, Dorchester Town Reserves play Salisbury Development away in the Wyvern Midweek Combination League tonight (7.45pm).