CINDERFORD Town manager Paul Michael has issued an open challenge to Forest footballers ready to make the step up to the Southern League.

Town boss Michael has made four new signings this summer but is trialling four local lads in pre-season to give Forest talent a chance.

Broadwell pair Jordi Sheen and Liam Thomas – brother of ex-Town captain Keiran and Derby County forward Luke - are joined by Ruardean Hill Rangers’ Charley Mason.

A fourth Forester is unconfirmed as yet, but Michael hopes he will link up with the County League trio at the Causeway.

Rangers captain Luke Brown was also offered a chance to try out with Michael’s men, but the Town manager confirmed he turned down the opportunity to play more local football.

“This gives these boys who have been recommended to us by local people a chance to shine,” Michael said.

“We are really hopeful that they can come in during pre-season and make an impact throughout the year.

“We know that Charley and Jordi are both technically gifted midfielders having had them both at the club as youngsters and maybe having had that experience of senior football they are now ready to make the step up.

“With Liam, we truly believe if someone can score goals at any level there’s no reason they can’t keep doing it at a higher standard.

“We have heard that he’s a very good forward with a great left foot.”

Michael has been busy this summer, signing a pair of much-needed full-backs and more attacking power.

Town suffered in the left-back department during their last campaign but Michael has addressed this with a move for Evesham United man Lewis Binns and Slimbridge’s Sam Turl.

“We realised full-back was an area we need to improve in,” Michael added.

“We had Tom Savigar and Joe Hunt on loan from Newport playing at full-back at the end of last season and we have had other players perform well in those positions; Blaine Waugh at right-back for example.

“But the two boys coming in are experienced Southern League players and high quality Southern League players.”

Striker Jacob Davidge, who netted 19 times for Town’s beleaguered county rivals Bishop’s Cleeve, has also agreed to join the Causeway club.

“Jacob is a quick forward player who just scores goals,” Michael said.

“We’ve been looking for someone else to weigh in with goals and he gives us more options and allows us to play in different formations.

“It will be more difficult to keep everyone happy this season but my job is to pick the best team for Cinderford Town Football Club.”

• ANY Forest footballers who feel ready to take on the challenge of playing in the Southern League can contact Paul Michael on Twitter at @Paul_michael86.