MIDFIELD playmaker Lewis Benson believes swapping Andover Town for a Salisbury return was a shrewd move.

The 26-year-old parted company with Andover, managed by father Neil Benson, after three successful seasons as club captain.

He joined the Portway Stadium outfit in 2013 – the year it was founded following the demise of Andover – and enjoyed a promotion from Sydenhams Wessex Division One and two solid seasons in Wessex Premier.

It was last year when Salisbury and Andover went head-to-head Benson caught the eye of Steve Claridge.

And within a month of the season ending, Claridge swooped for the set piece specialist, who last season netted 17 goals.

“It was tough and obviously I had been there for a few years and was involved with the coaching there as well but, to be honest, I always had it in my mind that at the end of the season I would move on and he [Neil Benson] was very supportive,” he said.

“Neil has always wanted me to push on with my football and see how high I can go with it so he was really accepting that I moved on and looked at other clubs.

“Having spoken with Steve, and seeing the direction he wants to take the club in, and seeing the lads as well, I knew it was a good decision for me and I’m really pleased with it so far.”

“I was looking for a new challenge this year and Salisbury presented the exact opportunity I was looking for.”

Benson spent some time at the Ray Mac in his teenage years in the Nick Holmes era.

He later exited amid the old club’s financial problems – and has been keen for a return ever since.

The full-time coach at Sparsholt College played a big part in Claridge’s pre-season plans and says he is loving his role.

“I’m getting plenty of game-time and I’m really enjoying it,” he added.

“I’ve settled in with the team really well and I’ve started to form some good partnerships with some of the other midfielders and it’s all going really well.”

Benson, who commutes from his home in Winchester, says promotion is the aim this season.

“I think Salisbury have a really good chance, they have a good squad and we are bringing in good players as well and have a real chance of promotion,” he continued.