DAN Green returns for the Magpies this afternoon when they take on Ebbsfleet United at the Avenue Stadium (3pm).

The 22-year-old’s time at Dorchester has so far been dogged by injuries but Phil Simkin is confident the club will soon start seeing the best of him.

The Dorchester Town boss told Echosport: “Dan suffered a bad cruciate-ligament injury last season and getting him back to match fitness has not been easy.

“Where a lot of the muscles haven’t been used for a while, it can often lead to over-use injuries, but we don’t foresee any more problems now and hopefully we will now start to see the best of him.”

Green’s versatility could prove vital for the Magpies this season with such a limited squad, and Simkin has earmarked a crucial role for him for the visit of the Fleet.

He added: “Dan will probably play behind the front man today and I believe that is his best position.

“Not only is he extremely fit and very talented but he also looks like he has always got a goal in him.

“Both Dan and Ben Watson have a fantastic work rate and although Ben hasn’t always had the best luck in front of goal I have every confidence they will come.

“Ben leads the line and puts his body in there for us all the time, and is without doubt one of the top three best signings I have ever made.”

Mark Jermyn is unlikely to be risked this afternoon but Arran Pugh is available while Calvin Brooks is almost back to full fitness.

Simkin is also hoping to finalise a deal for a loan player which he hopes to have at his disposal in time for next Saturday’s trip to Concord Rangers.