BOSS Steve Riley rates new signing Matt Vokes as a contender to slot straight into the Bashley first team.

The former Cherries apprentice has been snapped up by Riley as he builds a squad for next season’s Southern League Premier Division campaign.

Younger brother of ex-Dean Court star and current Wolves striker Sam, Vokes is a versatile player who cut his teeth in the Cherries youth ranks.

He was given a taste of senior football in the Wessex League with Brockenhurst last term but is now in line to jump two steps on the non-league ladder with Bash.

Riley has been impressed by Vokes’s performances in pre-season after the teenager started the friendlies against Wimborne Town, Eastleigh and Dorchester Town. He netted in Tuesday’s 1-1 draw against Conference South Magpies.

Asked about Vokes, Riley told the Daily Echo: “He is a good player who has fitted in really well.

“He has fitted into the dressing room and he works hard.”

Riley has handed opportunities to a number of new faces during his side’s summer schedule.

He added: “I don’t think there was a lot of competition last season.

“But now I am quite pleased that we have got healthy competition for places.”

Vokes is the latest former Cherries trainee to link up with Riley’s outfit.

Tom Hill, Matt Finlay and recent recruit James Stokoe are all in the Bashley ranks.

Other new signings this summer include Bradley Hill and Stefan Penny.