PHIL Simkin has spoken of his delight at Sam Lanahan’s decision to put pen to paper on a one-year deal with the Magpies.

Lanahan signs for Dorchester having originally joined the club on non-contract terms last November.

The former Hamworthy United and Verwood Town midfielder, who can also play in defence, is someone Simkin is pleased to have on board.

“We took a little while to come to an agreement but I’m delighted we have,” said the Magpies’ boss.

“Sam is a very honest lad who is really fit and capable of playing in different positions – players like that are like gold dust.

“He is a very popular member of the playing staff and a great lad to have around the dressing room.”

Simkin also confirmed that goalkeeper Shane Murphy has agreed to stay with the club and will continue as back up to first-choice stopper Alan Walker-Harris.

He continued: “Shane has got the potential to be a very good keeper.

“He works well with Alan and I’m sure Shane will continue to progress with us.”

Meanwhile, the Dorchester chief was happy with how the squad’s first pre-season training session went on Saturday.

Some 40 players, including new signings Ben Joyce and Dan Cann, attended the workout as Simkin ran the rule over the current squad and a number of players hoping to impress the management team.

“There were a number of new faces who we’ll get to know in time,” added Simkin. “The intensity will grow in the next few weeks and we’ll see how things pan out.”