Boss Rob Smith has set his sights on completing his AFC Telford United squad by sealing a deal for experienced left-back Gareth Jelleyman.

The former Peterborough and Mansfield man appeared as a trialist in last night’s pre-season friendly at home to Port Vale, which finished as a 1-1 draw.

Jelleyman was at Blue Square Premier side Rushden & Diamonds last season and also had a loan spell with Barrow, though he also has almost 250 Football League appearances under his belt.

And Smith believes he might be the final piece in the Telford jigsaw if the finances can be found to bring the 28-year-old on board. “Gareth Jelleyman is a player I admire and I’d like to bring him to the club, it is as simple as that,” he declared.

“I think he enjoyed himself last night and would like to join us, and if there’s anything we can do then we will do it as quickly as possible.

“To me, he is a clone of Vaughany (right-back Lee Vaughan) – he’s comfortable in his position and he’s been there, seen it, done it.

“I’m hopeful we can do something because he would be a great acquisition.”

Jelleyman was one of two trialists last night, with 19-year-old Nottingham Forest midfielder Lee Hook coming on at half-time – though Smith admitted it was “doubtful” anything would happen on that front.

Fellow midfielder Liam Blakeman was able to play last night despite the gashed leg he suffered against Market Drayton on Saturday.

By CHRIS HUDSON