FORMER Cherries chairman Eddie Mitchell looks close to making a return to football after hinting at the possibility of a permanent role with Poole Town.

Mitchell and Poole chiefs are understood to be weighing up the imminent prospect of the ex-Dean Court supremo assuming a more regular position in the Dolphins boardroom set-up.

Mitchell, who sold his share in AFC Bournemouth in September, has already been working closely with the non-league outfit in their bid to build a new stadium.

The Sandbanks-based businessman now appears poised to step up his involvement as he admits he is seeking a new challenge following his Cherries exit.

And Poole vice-chairman Chris Reeves also strongly suggested Mitchell was set to play a part in the club’s future by confirming he and chairman Clive Robbins had held talks with the property developer.

Mitchell told the Daily Echo: “My first club is Bournemouth and always has been. That is my birth place and it is the club I have followed most of my life.

“But my first real interest in football was watching Poole Town at the stadium when I was probably eight years old. I have lived in Poole for virtually all my life and because I am a free agent, I would love to find Poole Town a permanent home.

“I have got surplus energy which I can’t put into Bournemouth so I could put it into Poole Town. If that possibility arises then great and we are on the verge of that possibility.

“I have extra energy from my daytime job and I can’t sit at home and watch Coronation Street. I have to get out and do what I think is good for what I enjoy and football is somewhat my enjoyment now. Poole is on my doorstep and it is what I believe in.”

Mitchell, who was previously involved in semi-professional football with Dorchester Town, helped revive Cherries’ fortunes during his eventful spell at Dean Court.

It is believed he is now keen on a more influential role at Tatnam, which would still largely revolve around attempting to boost Poole’s bid for a permanent home.

Reeves said: “Clive and I have had a number of meetings with Eddie and both of us have been really impressed with his enthusiasm and a clear desire on his part to help us progress. We are very pleased to embrace that enthusiasm. We are in regular touch at the moment and it could be the breath of fresh air that we need.

“It is great to think that somebody like Eddie is keen to help us make that next step.”

Dolphins have enjoyed a remarkable rise on the pitch under the management of Tom Killick but, since being kicked out of Poole Stadium in 1994, they have often been held back by their facilities.

Poole are understood to be short on funding for their Bearwood project and were recently given planning permission to make improvements at Tatnam, where they have a lease until 2024.