SKIPPER Mark Jermyn is tipping Sam Malsom to be a big hit at the Avenue Stadium.

The latter joined the Magpies from rivals Weymouth at the end of last month but the recent cold snap, which forced two postponements, means he has yet to make his competitive debut.

Tomorrow night’s friendly against a Portsmouth XI could be the fans’ first chance to see Malsom in action and Jermyn is confident they will not be disappointed.

The county town captain told Echosport: “Sam will be a very good signing for us, as long as we use him in the right way and he adjusts to the way we play.

“From the two practice games in which he’s played, Sam’s scored three goals, so he knows where the net is.

“I watched him once when he was at Weymouth. Shaun Hearn was also at the game and I said to Shaun that he was a good player and it would be nice to pinch him if possible. Fortunately, Shaun was able to do a deal to bring him here. He is good at driving at players and I’m really hoping he can achieve big things here.

“He has been with us for a few weeks but he’s not been able to play, which must be strange for him. However, it could be a good thing as he’s been able to get to know everyone.”

Saturday’s home clash with Havant & Waterlooville will be the Magpies’ first competitive outing since January 21.

Therefore, Jermyn is eagerly awaiting tomorrow’s visit of Pompey (7.30pm).

The player-coach added: “This has been the longest time in a season where I haven’t played without being injured.

“On Saturday it will be five weeks since we played a competitive game but we’ve got a Portsmouth XI on Tuesday so hopefully they will bring a decent team and we will have a good run-out against them.”

Ticket prices for tomorrow’s game are £5 for adults, £3 for concessions and £1 for those aged 16 and under.