Faversham boss Ray Turner is leaving the door open for Jack Baldwin to return to the club if the young defender does not win a contract at a higher level.

The youngster quickly established himself with the Lilywhites and that has earned him trials with League 2 Gillingham and League 1 Hartlepool.

Baldwin played in the Gills’ opening three pre-season games and was due to head north for a trial with Hartlepool in the coming days.

Turner (pictured) said: "I have had a few texts from Jack and he is keeping me informed. He’s finding it hard work but is enjoying it.

"In one way we hope he doesn’t come back and it would be great if we can see a player progress from Faversham into the Football League.

"It’s a big step up but he is capable and he shone for us at centre-back. It’s just a wonder why he hasn’t been picked up earlier on.

"If it doesn’t work out we would, of course, welcome him back."

Turner, meanwhile, is keeping tabs on another player who is set for a trial with Gillingham. Forward Joseph Afusi played for Faversham in their opening pre-season match – a 3-1 win over a young Dover side – and he was due to play for the Gills against Ramsgate yesterday (Wednesday).