YOUNG striker Mark Irvine has revealed why he decided to sign for Dorchester Town following his release from Southampton.

The 18-year-old joined the Magpies on a year-long deal earlier this month after being let go by the Saints in May.

He had spent the tail end of last season on loan at the Avenue and when the opportunity to acquire his services on a permanent basis arose he was snapped up by county town boss Mark Jermyn.

“From a personal point of view, I didn’t really enjoy it at Southampton towards the end,” he said.

“I came to Dorchester for a bit last season and thoroughly enjoyed it, and everyone seemed pretty keen for me to come back.

“Once I spoke to Jem and he said he’d like me to come back I didn’t have to think about it.

“I had a few other places I could have gone to but I thought I’d get a better opportunity at Dorchester.

“The main thing for me is game time and that’s why I decided to join the club.”

He went on to add: “When I was here last season I forced my way into the team and played a few games.

“My aim now is to push on and get as many goals and assists as I can.”

A toe infection kept Irvine out of tonight's friendly against Plymouth Argyle’s academy which ended in a 0-0 draw.