WIMBORNE boss Matty Holmes admitted he had been impressed by striker Aidan Shepherd and said: “He is definitely one for the future."

The teenager, who has 11 goals in 13 starts for Magpies' development squad, could earn a first-team chance when Wimborne visit Western Premier side Bridport in tomorrow's Dorset Senior Cup semi-final (7.45pm).

Shepherd was an unused substitute against Met Police in Southern League South on Saturday. He has come off the bench five times this campaign, registering one assist.

Speaking about the youngster, manager Holmes told the Daily Echo: “He is one we are looking forward to seeing come through.

“We could have given him a few more opportunities but with the situation we are in, we have to be a bit careful.

“He is scoring goals in the development squad week in and week out.

“He is definitely one for the future. He has a fair bit of pace about him, is a goalscorer and a similar type of player to Toby (Holmes).”

Magpies, who are five points above the bottom three in the league, could rest the likes of Toby Holmes and James Stokoe for the clash with the Bees.

But boss Holmes insisted retaining the county cup remained high on his priority list.

“We will have a couple of changes but we are mindful we want to be strong,” he said.

“It’s an opportunity to get to a final and win it, if we do get through against Bridport. It’s a great chance to try to get back-to-back cups and that’s what we are going for.”