WISBECH Town boss Steve Appleby has hailed the return of his “match-winner” Callum Reed who has re-signed for the Fenmen after just three months with fierce rivals King’s Lynn Town.

Reed sealed a dramatic U-turn on Tuesday night when he left the Linnets without playing a single competitive game and returned to the Elgood’s Fenland Stadium.

The 20-year-old, who has attracted interest from a host of non-league clubs including Cambridge United, left Wisbech in May - just weeks after scoring the goal which won them the Ridgeons League Challenge Cup.

Appleby said: “I think Callum has been a man about it. A lot of players would have taken the easy option and found another club but Callum rang me up and said: ‘I think I’ve made a mistake, will you have me back?’

“He has said that since he’s been in non-league football the only team he’s really enjoyed playing for has been Wisbech.

“We’ve got good players and a good team but Callum is a bit like Matt Lunn and Chris Bacon in that he can provide something different. He’s a match-winner.

“He played a big part in winning the league cup last season and I hope he will play a big part in winning things this season.”

In a last-gasp squad shake-up, Appleby also signed goalkeeper Ryan Rayner - who had impressed on trial with the Fenmen - while Chris Horton and winger Billy Smith left for Dereham Town. Full back Simon Flanz has also left the club.

“As a manager I’ve not had the greatest of weeks,” said Appleby. “I have had to do the ugly side of it and be honest with people.

“It feels like as soon as the season starts my job will get easier. I haven’t stopped - all the way through pre-season there’s been hassle.

“But when I look at the squad for Saturday I get a bit of satisfaction and a feeling that it is worthwhile.”

Wisbech begin an exciting challenge for the Ridgeons Premier Division title when they host Wivenhoe Town tomorrow before hosting Mildenhall Town on Tuesday.

Appleby said: “I want to win the league. Whether that’s possible I don’t know yet. There’s probably eight quality teams who will be thinking the same thing. We have put ourselves in a position where we could challenge.”