Bashley have set their sights on the all-round talent of Moneyfields' utility man James Dunk.

The Foresters have lodged notice of approach with the Sydenhams Wessex League outfit for a player who feels at home virtually anywhere on the park.

It's Dunk's defensive skills that principally interest Bash manager John Robson. He said: "James is a lad I was looking at when I was managing Totton and we were not sure what people like Stuart Ritchie were going to do.

"Ideally, I see him as a back four player but he can play anywhere across defence with either foot and he can also do a job in the middle of the park and up front.

"I've had a few people watch him and we all agree he's a quality player who could do a lot better."

At least one of Bashley's two new signings from Newport IoW is ruled out of tomorrow's home match against Dartford as the Foresters bid to make it three new year wins in a row.

Attacking midfielder Gareth Keeping is suspended after totting up five bookings for his old club and striker Stuart Cannie is also doubtful having been laid low by illness. Robson said: "It'll be disappointing if Stuart can't play either, but I'm looking forward to having the pair of them 100 per cent fit and available and integrated into the team.

"Gareth's got a fantastic engine on him and Stuart's left peg is as good as anyone's in this area."

Goalkeeper Mike Hookway, who lost his place when David Elm returned from illness, has disappeared off the Bashley scene. Youth team graduate Rob Vine will cover for Elm after some impressive displays for the reserves. "He's going to be a quality keeper," predicted Robson.