BOBBY Wilkinson confessed to being a “big admirer” of new striker Ben Thomson.

Weymouth are poised to bring in the popular forward for a dramatic return to a club where he has 255 games, 66 goals and 47 assists under his belt.

The move is subject to FA approval and paperwork being completed following his exit from Salisbury on Wednesday.

And Wilkinson believes Thomson can have a big impact on the Terras as they aim to lift themselves from the bottom of the Vanarama National League South.

He told Echosport: “I heard a couple of weeks ago he was maybe not happy where he was.

READ MORE: Ben Thomson set for dramatic Weymouth return

“I’ve been a big admirer of his for the last few years. I think he’s a wonderful player.

“As soon as I had a little inkling, I spoke to Paul (Maitland) and Jason (Matthews) and I said I wanted to attack this.

“Then I spoke to the player, we got on very well. He’s got my drive, my ambitions and I think we’re a good fit.

“I’m absolutely overjoyed to have him on board.”

Thomson has battled injury problems in past seasons but Wilkinson pointed towards alleviating the same ailment for Ahkeem Rose as proof he can keep the burly striker fit.

“What I’m trying to do is not look back,” Wilkinson explained.

“I know he’s a hero, but I’m trying to look forward. This is the moment.

“I know he’s had injuries, but I’ve got to believe we can manage them differently and make sure he doesn’t get any injuries, like we’ve done with Rosey. We’ve already proven that.

“Now it’s about can we keep him fit and can he help us move up this league?”

*WEYMOUTH FC Travel Club are running a coach to Welling on Saturday leaving the Bob Lucas Stadium at 8.30am. £30 per seat. Contact Pete Pavey on 07969 540427 for more details.