KYLE Critchell has certainly played his part in a much-improved campaign – covering every blade of grass in a Dorchester Town shirt.

The versatile full-back has occupied almost every role on the pitch during his 42 appearances in all competitions, from donning the gloves as an emergency keeper to leading the line as a makeshift forward.

And despite his many guises, the 25-year-old has been one of the Magpies’ most consistent performers.

Looking back at last season’s 11th-place finish in Blue Square Bet South, Critchell told Echosport: “It’s been a good season all-round and given where we have finished everyone should be proud of themselves.

“We have had to deal with adversity throughout the season, such as losing players like Ben Dickenson and Tom Nichols, but hopefully we can bring in another unknown striker that scores goals.

“I also hope we earn the club a bit more money in the cup competitions as we let ourselves down last season.

“The chairman Shaun Hearn deserves a good run and so do the fans. Hopefully we won’t fall at the first or second hurdle.”

On the topic of his versatility, Critchell added: “I’ve never played as a goalkeeper before but I played as a striker during my childhood and at Southampton before they converted me.

“Sometimes I have had to fill in and do a job but it’s been fun. Not many people can say they turn up for work and have fun.

“What people have to realise is we don’t have the money other teams have to go out and get cover when you have a few injuries.

“Nathan Walker has played every league game season and I’ve tallied my highest amount of appearances in a single season, and when you play that amount of games it takes a lot out of you.

“Hopefully next season we can have a squad of players that can stay fit and healthy.

“Our best XI would have a chance of going up but you can’t play the same XI for the whole season, it’s too difficult, especially at semi-professional level.”

The season may be over but Critchell remains hard at work in preparation for 2012/13 and is still being put through his paces by personal trainer and former Dorchester keeper Regan Coward.

He also begins a new university course in September but is determined to maintain his commitment to the county town cause.

The defender said: “I am already contracted for next season but I am going to Bath University in September, so I’ll be trying to juggle that with everything else.

“I have spoken with Phil Simkin and we will have to see how it goes. But I want to commit to the contract I have signed. If I can’t then we will have to come to some sort of agreement.

“However, I hope I’m able to fulfil my contract and be part of a successful side next season.”