AFC TOTTON are confident they have “healthy” frontline competition at the club – despite the rapid departure of Tony Lee.

Just over a month after signing forms for the Stags, the former Eastleigh marksman has grabbed the opportunity to play National League South football at Tom Killick’s Poole Town.

Totton boss Louis Langdown has stated on many occasions that he will not stand in the way of players progressing and the club have given Lee’s move their blessing.

An AFC Totton statement explained: “Although Tony has signed Southern League forms for us, once Poole Town lost the services of Marvin Brooks (to Salisbury) Louis feared the worst and the goalposts definitely moved.

“When a successful club operating two leagues higher in the football pyramid comes calling, you cannot stand in a player’s way.

“Tommy Killick approached the matter very professionally and discussions between Tony, Louis and Tommy focused on what is right for Tony moving forward.

“This represents a good move, both on footballing terms and personal terms for Tony.

“We hope that Tony has a successful season with Poole but, if that is not the case, then with a dual registration he can return to the Testwood Stadium.

“With Tobi (Adekunle), Craig (Feeney) and Nathaniel (Sherborne) committed and an entire pre-season ahead of us, we have healthy competition for the striking spots.”

Lee, 20, ended last season in the NS South with Gosport Borough, scoring seven goals in 19 games for Alex Pike’s men having finally severed his ties with Eastleigh.

In November 2015, the Southampton-based forward had become the first home-grown youngster to sign a professional contract with the Spitfires in almost ten years.

He spent much of his senior Eastleigh career gaining experience out on loan, including a spell with Poole in 2015/16.

His travels also took him to Dorchester Town, Cirencester Town, Tiverton Town and Whitehawk.

AFC Totton kick off their pre-season programme this Friday (July 7, 7.45pm) at Fawley AFC.

That is followed on Tuesday (July 11, 7.45pm) by a home friendly against National League outfit Aldershot Town.