JORDAN Rose is still chasing his dream of becoming a professional footballer after getting his first taste of competitive senior action with Bashley.

The 18-year-old Lymington-based utility man, who was released by Cherries at the end of last season, is enjoying his time with Bash after making his debut last weekend in the 1-0 victory over Banbury United.

The youngster can play in a range of positions and he impressed manager Steve Riley in a central midfield role on his maiden outing.

But despite admitting he has "landed on his feet" by joining the Recreation Ground club, Rose has loftier ambitions than the Southern League.

"It's not a shock to the system but a bit of a reality check and a slap round the face to say - this is the football you're playing now so get used to it," he told the Daily Echo.

"I'm still involved at Salisbury and play for the reserves, but they had no more budget left.

"Luckily I got in at Bashley on non-contract terms so I can play for both, probably Salisbury's reserves.

"Bashley is not where I saw myself playing but it's a stepping stone.

"One of the things Salisbury said was I need to play more men's football and it's been good."

Rose spent some of pre-season with Conference high-flyers Salisbury but is getting regular football with Bash, who have endured an inconsistent start to the Premier Division campaign.

The New Forest outfit host newly-promoted Stourbridge tomorrow (3pm) on the back of a heavy midweek defeat at Gloucester City.

And boss Riley has high hopes for his new capture Rose who, like Sam Vokes, Josh McQuoid and Russ Perrett, came off the Priestlands School production line.

"He made his debut in the middle of the park and impressed on his first taste of Southern League football," said Riley.

"He's an athlete and very keen. It's his first taste of non-league football and he knows he's got a lot to learn and needs to get consistent.

"He just needs to sustain his level of performance."

Rose's debut for Bash was delayed because he was awaiting international clearance, having played for Caen as a teenager after his family moved to France.