NEW Dorchester Town manager Callum Brooks insisted he is “ready for the job” after his rapid appointment at the Clayson Stadium.

Brooks joined from Sydenhams Wessex Premier Division side Hamworthy United just over 24 hours after predecessor Steve Thompson was fired.

With the Magpies occupying the first relegation place in the Evo-Stik Southern Premier South, Brooks has just 10 games to save Dorchester from the dreaded drop.

In his first interview with Echosport, Brooks expressed his feelings of pride and honour upon joining Dorchester.

He said: “I’m excited and pleased and that’s turned into being proud and honoured to have an opportunity to work for such a fantastic football club.

“I was approached by Dorchester, who thought I night be able to help them out in their situation. I’ve recently worked with some ex-players at Dorchester and over time I’ve been on my football journey and managed to create a bit of a reputation.

“It’s a club I’ve always followed closely and I’ve almost become involved there at various other times, so it looks like the time is now right for both parties.

“I’m honoured to be given the opportunity to manage the club. I feel I’m in a position where I’m ready for the job.”

Asked if he had formulated a preferred line-up for his backroom staff, Brooks admitted the notion was too soon but revealed he is keen for current assistant-boss Trevor Senior to play a big role until the season’s end at least.

He said: “It’s come around really quick. The first thing I’ll be doing is talking to Trevor. My initial thoughts are that I’m hoping he’ll stay and be a part of what we’re doing at least until the end of the season.

“I’ve got huge respect for Trevor and I know he knows the club and group of players very well. For now, I’m going to need that.

“We’ve had initial talks and all indications are that we’ll get together (today) with the players.”

Brooks also revealed he is aiming to extract maximum performance from his inherited squad.

He said: “First of all, we’ll have a look at the current group and try and get them bouncing in training, get them set up. Everyone will get an opportunity. It’s a clean slate.

“There’s a talented group there and I’m excited to get to work with them, and the common sense will you tell if I feel I’ve got players who can help the situation, of course, I’d draw on everything I can to improve over the next 10 games."