LUKE Hopper is set to make his Swindon Supermarine debut today after joining the club from Hungerford Town.

The striker has signed forms with the Webb’s Wood Stadium side and the move was set to be ratified by the Southern League last night.

This will be Hopper’s second spell at the South Marston’s club after first joining in 2008 where he scored 25 goals in 111 appearances.

And with Dave Webb’s men set to tackle Didcot Town this afternoon, assistant manager Lee Spalding is pleased that they have captured Hopper, who had a brief spell at Chippenham Town last season.

“Everyone knows that we have been after a striker since Josh (Parsons) and Ash (Edenborough) left,” Spalding said. “Luke is someone that Dave has been after for a while and we are pleased that we’ve got him.

“Luke has good quality. He strengthens our side, he adds a presence up front and is a proven goalscorer at this level.”

Spalding, who has been looking after the side during the final week of pre-season while Webb was on holiday, says that the players are in good shape for the upcoming campaign.

With no injury concerns ahead of the trip to the Railwaymen, Supermarine will be looking to get their Southern League Division One South and West season off to a flying start.

“Everyone has been working really hard,” Spalding said. “All the players’ attitude and commitment has been great.

“We’re all looking forward to getting the season started and getting a positive result.

“Winning that first match is everything. It gives you confidence and something that you build on.

“The play-off defeat from last season is out of our system and we are aiming to finish as high as we can.”

Spalding feels that the new signings that club have brought in, including Hopper and Ross Adams, have helped given the club a fresh feel.

“The summer has been very positive,” the Marine number two said. “When you have new faces at the club, it freshens everything up.”