NORTHWICH Victoria manager Mark Gardiner was so impressed with trialist Damien Logan he signed him straight away.

Logan, 18, who was released this year by Everton, featured prominently in last Thursday's 1-1 draw against Burnley.

The right-sided player immediately impressed Gardiner with his abilities and attitude - and the Vics boss had no hesitation in asking him to join.

Gardiner said: "He came down and trained with us on Tuesday and then played most of the game on Thursday.

"He looked very good and he's certainly got the ability for a young player.

"He can play on the right side of midfield, right wing or even centre foward and he's also got an eye for goal, which is another advantage.

"Hopefully he'll be able to unlock defences and give us another route to goal. Damien's only small but he's a strong player and it's a good move for us."

Logan was recommended by former Vics frontman Paul Tait, who left The Drill Field this summer in search of professional football at Crewe.

Gardiner had hoped to land Stalybridge's Brendan Burke as a replacement for Tait, but he chose newly promoted Altrincham instead while another potential target, trialist David Gray, joined Clitheroe.

"Gray had also impressed me and we talked to him about joining us, however he decided to join a club four divisions below us.

"I'm a bit disappointed with his attitude and lack of ambition but that's his choice and we'll keep on looking," he said.

Tait's departure left a gap in the Vics' attacking line, but Neil Illman's goal from a free kick and all round good performance against Burnley showed he's ready to take his place.

England schoolboy Gary Fletcher also featured in the match and put in another solid display.

Added Gardiner: "Gary played well again and so did all the young players. I've been pleased with Nick Boothby and Chris Royal and they're all coming along well."

Vics travel to Wales this Saturday to take on Flint and Gardiner intends to carry mixing things around as well as seeing more trialist in action.

Fans will be able to personally ask Mark Gardiner about the team's progress and his thought for the coming season at a Fans' Forum on Thursday night.

The meeting takes place at 8.30pm in the Ken Edwards suite and all fans are welcome.

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