Dayle Southwell targets promotion following Boston United return

Nicky Walker joins Dayle Southwell in celebrating his hat-trick against Harrogate's Peter Crook.

The striker was part of the Pilgrims squads which suffered play-off heartbreak in 2015 and 2016, and now he is determined to help the club finally lift themselves up out of the National League North.

"The club are doing well in the FA Cup and pushing for promotion. It's not a sentimental thing, I'm here to help the club win promotion," said 26-year-old Southwell, who scored 54 goals in 87 appearances for the Pilgrims.

"We had a great side back then. That squad moved on and it takes time to rebuild and challenge again.

"But they're in a good position and I'd love to help this club get promoted."

Southwell has joined on an initial month-long loan from FC Halifax Town, which has an option to be extended.

While he is cup tied and cannot feature for the Pilgrims against Rochdale, he is eligible to make his debut at Kidderminster Harriers this Saturday (KO 3pm).

"I think I'm a better player than when I was at Boston," continued former Grimsby Town trainee Southwell, who has revelled in a return to full-time football with Wycombe Wanderers, Guiseley and Lincoln City after leaving York Street.

"I've had a few injuries and I haven't had a lot of game time recently. I can't expect to be come back and be the player I was straight away.

"But I'm really pleased to be back at Boston. I had my name circulated (for loan) but I knew that if Boston were interested there'd only be one place I wanted to go.

"It's a place that's familiar to me and where I played my best football.

"Obviously, I know a lot of people here and I can't wait to get back."