Rob Smith: James Hurst is too good to miss

Hurst is the highest-profile signing for the Bucks so far this summer having played briefly in the Premier League for West Brom and represented England at international level in four different age groups to Under-20s.

Like Reid, the 24-year-old can play right-back, wide midfield or in the No.10 role, where he was a huge success at Torquay, scoring seven times in 17 games.

But Smith insists that when Hurst, who he managed at Hednesford, became available, it was an opportunity too good to turn down. "He's not a direct replacement for Izak or anyone, but when someone of his ability becomes available, we had to move for him," said the Bucks boss.

"He's from a higher level and the only reason he has signed for us is because we know him and it's Telford.

"When I had him at Hednesford, he was primarily a right back then he went to Torquay and played in the number 10 role and he banged in a load of goals."

But Smith hinted at doubts over the Telford future of Reid, who was in and out of the team in the second half of the season.

"Izak's one of the highest-paid players at the club so I don't know whether I'm keeping him yet – I have to discuss a lot of things," said the boss.

"I haven't spoken to him – I've been that busy that I haven't got round to speaking to him yet, but I will be meeting him."

Hurst was suspended by Torquay from all football-related club activities on November 11 pending an investigation over an 'alleged incident' on a night out.

He played his last game for the Gulls on October 31 in a 1-1 draw against Altrincham and subsequently joined National League Premier rivals Guiseley on loan for the rest of the season.

But Smith has no qualms about the player or his conduct.

"I think there was some sort of incident with him at Torquay," he said. "But when I had him with me before, I never had an ounce of trouble with him and there was never a problem with his attitude."