BASHLEY boss Steve Riley has revealed he is already closing in on a possible replacement for Richard Gillespie.

Bash goalscoring legend Gillespie has left the Recreation Ground for Eastleigh, leaving Riley without his star player.

To make matters worse, fellow forward Ryan Moss is also unlikely to remain with Bashley due to work commitments.

But with Dave Allen opting to turn his back on a proposed switch to Eastleigh, Riley confirmed he was also close to sealing a deal for a new frontman.

He told the Echo: “The fans will be disappointed but I’m sure they will wish Richard the best of luck.

“I’m now looking for a young Richard Gillespie and I might have found one.

“There are one or two players I’m hoping to sign either at the weekend or early next week, which will freshen things up.”

One striker Riley has been linked with in the past is Poole Town’s prolific youngster Charlie Austin.

The prospect’s form last season earned him a trial with AFC Bournemouth and he was also thought to be attracting interest from Bashley and AFC Totton, while Dolphins boss Tom Killick confirmed that Eastleigh had submitted a bid for him.