May 17 2003

Craig Dobson

Craig Dobson said the chance to work with Bobby Gould at Cheltenham was too good to turn down after getting released by Palace.

Dobbo even rejected a move to a Romanian side and played four reserve games for Cheltenham before signing this week.

He said: "I decided to sign for Cheltenham rather than take up the other offers I had, because the prospect of working under Bobby Gould really appealed to me.

"He is a football legend who has played and managed at the highest level.

"I was offered a big contract to go to Romania for two years, but while I had a fantastic time there on trial, I felt it was too early to go to a foreign country at just 19."

The former Nike 'free-styling' skills champion added: "I didn't defend my freestyle title this season as I promised myself this season that while it was nice to be on TV, it was becoming very tiring and time-consuming.

"So while I still use my skills I have learnt over the years on the training pitch and in matches, I just want to focus on my game and be the best possible player I can."

We wish Dobson the best of luck in the future and hope his super skills don't come back to haunt us!