Magpies bring in two new midfielders ahead of trip to league leaders

Midfielder Isaac Hughes has arrived on loan from Forest Green Rovers with Northern Irish international Lee Hodson also returning to the club after an initial one month loan at the end of January.

Both players will be welcome additions to Wes Fogden’s side as they look to bring back points from the Elmbridge Xcel Sports Hub.

Hughes is a Northern Irish youth international and was the second youngest player to play for Forest Green’s first team in 2023 aged 15.

In a statement, the Magpies said: “Dorchester Town Football Club are pleased to announce the loan signing of midfielder Isaac Hughes from Forest Green Rovers.

“The Northern Ireland youth international, who has been capped at under 18 level for his country, arrives at The Avenue on a youth loan from the National League side, where in 2023 at the age of 15 he became the second youngest player in their history to make his first team debut, coming off the bench against Shrewsbury Town in the EFL Trophy.

“Hughes could make his debut for the Magpies when we visit Walton & Hersham this Saturday.Welcome Isaac.”

Hodson returns from AFC Totton until the end of the season and his experience could prove invaluable in the run in as Dorchester look to avoid relegation.

The versatile midfielder made three appearances during his short spell at the Avenue earlier this season – including wins against Yate and Evesham United.

Both players will join Balraj Lando and the impressive George Chubinidze as new players added to the Magpies squad to bolster depth heading into the final few games of the campaign,

Harvey Wright remains suspended for the game after a straight red picked up against Basingstoke but the return of Ollie Haste last weekend will be welcome news ahead of the game with Walton & Hersham this weekend.

Marcus Daws and Luke Roberts are still doubts for the game, and with the addition of Hodson and Hughes, that could imply they are not going to be available for the game.

Dorset Echo | Dorchester News