PORTLAND United are already looking forward to next season’s challenge in the Sydenhams Wessex League Premier Division and are “back where we belong” according to skipper Lewis Whyton and vice-captain Ross Doidge.

Both players featured for the island outfit at Wessex League level previously before the club dropped back into the Dorset Premier League.

This time around however, they are determined not just to be in the Premier Division to make up the numbers.

Speaking to Echosport after the Blues lifted the Wessex Division One crown on Saturday, Whyton said: “It’s unbelievable, I can’t believe it really. We have a very good squad.

“We played four Premier Division teams in the cup this season, which was a good test for us, and showed where we are at.

“My aim is top 10 (next season) to be honest. I think the highest we have finished is eighth up there so the top 10 would be a good season.”

Doidge, who has racked up more than 30 appearances for the Blues this term, added: “We wouldn’t have expected to win the league when we got promoted last season.

“But I would say now, with the squad we have got along with the management, the club really wanted it and we are back, to be fair, where we belong.

“There are a few of our players who are nearly over the hill but not quite!

“We will have a good bash at it next season and I imagine we will strengthen because every time people come out the woodwork from other clubs.

“We have got to keep the nucleus of our squad and add to it.

“It will be another challenge again.”