WINGER Ed Bastick has admitted that Dorchester Town boss Craig Laird’s continued interest in securing his services for next season is “flattering”.

The pacy right-sided midfielder is expected to move to the Avenue from Portland United having been invited to train with the Magpies in pre-season.

Bastick had been the subject of interest from the county town club last term but the 23-year-old resisted in favour of remaining at Grove Corner, where he helped the Blues claim the Sydenhams Wessex League Premier Division title.

He said: “I turned down the club last year and I felt I made the right decision.

“When I spoke to Craig he reiterated the fact that he wanted me to sign and I did think at the time that I might have missed my opportunity.

“It’s flattering that they have tried again so I’m happy about that. I’m looking forward to it [the trial].”

Bastick also revealed to Echosport that he has always had a long-term ambition to play for the Magpies.

“Obviously being a Dorchester lad I have always wanted to play for them,” he added.

Asked what he could add to the Magpies’ squad, the talented winger is confident he can provide a range of attacking qualities to the Dorchester squad.

“Naturally my pace is good. I’m quick and I can offer a bit of width and counter-attacking as well. It’s about bringing a bit of danger up top,” he said.

Should he end up leaving United, Bastick believes it will be with a heavy heart, describing the squad there as “the best” he’s played with.

He added: “I’ve been there four seasons and it’s been exceptional, the best bunch of lads I’ve ever played football with. The club has been superb to me.

“It would be sad for me but I’ve spoken to the lads and they understand. It’s been a great four years,” he added.

Having had a hernia operation last term, Bastick will be searching for more conditioning when he begins pre-season training.

“It’s mainly just the fitness side of things that I need to work on. I feel a lot more nimble now and I’m raring to go.”

n Dorchester Town play Portland United in a pre-season friendly on Tuesday, July 25th, while Portland United begin their pre-season against Bridport at St Mary’s Field on Tuesday, July 18.