Doswell: Why Joe got the nod over Duncan
Paul Doswell has explained why the Hawks signed
Joe Tupper instead of making a loan move for Pompey goalkeeper Duncan Turnbull.
The American had been on a brief trial from the Blues and featured in both the club's pre-season friendlies at Horndean and AFC Totton.
However, Doswell decided to overlook Turnbull in favour of signing former Crystal Palace under-23s goalkeeper Tupper on a one-year deal.
The ex-Eagles man signed a short-term deal with the Hawks to provide competition to Ross Worner for the National League South play-offs in July.
In that brief stay, Tupper caught the eye of Doswell and he is delighted to have secured his return.
The Hawks boss admitted he was unaware the stopper was available following his Eagles release when he handed Turnbull a trial.
And the fact he can provide permanent competition to Worner, as opposed to the potential of Turnbull being recalled by parent club Pompey, proved a crucial factor.
‘The decision was did we look at Duncan for that loan as a possibility,’ said Doswell.
‘But knowing that Pompey might recall him made the decision easier.
‘When I took Duncan in, Joe wasn’t necessarily available.
‘He was with Crystal Palace under-23s, had just been released and had interest in him.
‘Having him in the playoffs, and seeing how good he was before that, it was an offer that we made and I’m pleased he’s decided to accept it.
‘We were looking at our situation, looking at Duncan and I’d read a few comments that Pompey could immediately recall him if they wanted.
‘I then spoke to Joe and asked where he was at because we genuinely felt he could offer competition to Ross and if he gets in the team, he’ll be given a chance to stay in the team.’
Doswell reiterated that Worner remains his No1 for