Midfielder Levi Reid has been backed to make up for lost time at AFC Telford United – by establishing himself in the first team frame.

Reid, 27, joined the Bucks from Stafford Rangers at the end of March but did not make a single appearance as his new side won promotion to the Conference Premier through the play-offs.

But he has been invited back for pre-season training which starts this week, and challenged to prove that he is worth a deal at the higher level.

“Levi came to us at a stage when we were just starting to go really well again,” said assistant manager Darren Read.

“He showed a great attitude, which was noted by the players and the coaching staff.

“We know he’s got something or we wouldn’t have invited him back.

“At the time we had a settled side so it was difficult for anyone to break in.

“But his experience at this level could be invaluable. We know he is keen to come back to us and I am sure he will do very well.”

Reid is one of a number of players from the promotion-winning squad that have been invited back to training without any guarantees of a deal.

They include striker Steve Abbott, attacking midfielder Courtney Pitt and wide man Phil John.

French striker Yannick Salem was also invited to try and prove his worth but he looks set to return to his native Paris.

Meanwhile, released striker Danny Carey-Bertram has signed a deal with Blue Square Bet North club Worcester City.

Carey-Bertram will be teaming up with three more ex-Bucks. Midfielder Kevin O’Connor has been at St George’s Lane for a year while winger Danny Edwards has joined from Stafford Rangers and defender Jacob Rowe from Redditch.

By CHRIS HUDSON