CHRIS Wilson has described his new role at the helm of Portland United as his biggest test to date.

The former Easton United and Chickerell United boss was handed the job following Stuart Heath’s decision to become Phil Simkin’s number two at Dorchester Town at the end of last season, and he cannot wait to get started.

Wilson told Echosport: “Portland United is a big club with a massive history and although you always think long and hard when these types of positions come up, this particular one was clearly too good an opportunity to walk away from.

“Being a Portlander and having played for the club back in the 1980s, it is also a very proud moment for me and my family, and I am determined to go in there and do the best I can.

“I am under no pressure whatsoever to deliver silverware but I have inherited a fantastic group of players and as long as everyone stays, which they have said they will do, I am confident we will do well.

“There is not a great deal that needs tinkering with but if we can implement our own ideas and values, and keep the lads improving then it will put the club in a very strong position.

“Derek McKay has been promoted from reserve-team manager to first-team assistant-manager and his experience of working with the players and inside the club will no doubt prove invaluable, and along with new first-team coach Sean Phelps, I have clearly got some great people around me.

“The committee are also 100 per cent behind us and together I am sure we will continue to take the club forward.”

Wilson’s first priority is to keep hold of his top stars, which could prove a challenge in itself with several other clubs showing an interest in their talents.

When asked about his thoughts on the matter, Wilson added: “Obviously we want to keep as many as possible.

“I have worked with most of the players before and although it is difficult to nail people down at this time of year, I am hopeful the majority of them will stay – and if they do, fantastic.

“With the reserves having won the Dorset Senior League last season, many of them will be looking to push for a first-team place now so there is certainly plenty to build on.”

The Blues, who return to pre-season training on Tuesday, July 3, have arranged five pre-season friendlies so far including away trips to Bridport (July 17) and Axminster (July 28) and home clashes against Weymouth (July 21), Weymouth Sports (August 4) and Dorchester Town (August 8).