SOUTHERN LEAGUE: Dean felt staying was right move

The 22-year-old midfielder admits he had his head turned by Chippenham during talks with Bluebirds boss Nathan Rudge earlier this month, but could not bring himself to swap the Webb’s Wood Stadium for Hardenhuish Park.

Dean, who swept the board at Marine’s end-of-season awards, had an impressive first campaign in the Southern League and was one of few bright spots in a campaign where the club went down to Division One South & West.

“Even though I had a good season, I didn’t want to leave after them being relegated,” said Dean.

“After speaking to Rudgey at Chippenham I did want to go there originally, but it just didn’t feel right and I would rather stay and help Supermarine get back up.

“I do want to play at a higher level, but I’m still young.

“I think if we keep the squad together next season then we’ve got a chance of going straight back up. In the second half of last season, some of the wins we had showed the capability we have to do well.”

Boss Webb, Dean’s old manager at Highworth, met the player on Monday night to formally tie up his stay.

The midfielder was set to go away on holiday less than 48 hours later and Webb wanted Dean’s future assured before the latter jetted off to the Dominican Republic.

Meanwhile, Webb has revealed he plans to build his Supermarine team around Dean after convincing the youngster to remain at the Webb’s Wood Stadium.

“He was the first one I wanted to speak to after he won all the awards last year. He had had such a good season that other clubs were going to be interested in him,” said Webb.

“I had him at Highworth and he’s the sort of lad you want to keep and build the team around.

“He did so well last year in his first season at that level and now he’s got the challenge to try and replicate that, and I’m sure he will.

“He’s got a superb attitude, wants to listen and wants to learn. It’s about timing sometimes and a bit more time at Supermarine might help him.”