PLAYER-manager Darren Curtis is confident new recruit Ben Thomson can help revive the fortunes of Wessex League strugglers New Milton Town.

Curtis insisted he had landed one of the Premier Division’s leading creative forces after securing the services of the non-league veteran.

The Linnets boss was speaking after new signing Thomson had opened his account with a goal in Saturday’s FA Vase defeat against Bitton AFC.

Thomson, a former player with Lymington & New Milton, returns to Fawcett’s Field boasting a fine pedigree in the semi-professional game.

The ex-Brockenhurst and Bashley man also played for Cherries reserves during an extended trial under Sean O’Driscoll in 2000 and 2001.

Discussing the 34-year-old, Curtis told the Daily Echo: “He has so much experience and, on the ball, he is really confident and players can thrive on that. On the ball, he is probably the best in the league.

“He scored a great goal on Saturday which he curled into the top corner and it was so nice to see him back at the ground.

“It is a fresh start and a new challenge for him. It is the most excited I have seen him about playing football for a long time.”

  • Wessex League Premier Division leaders Christchurch host Hythe & Dibden in the Russell Cotes Cup second round tonight (7.45pm).