Dayle Southwell believes he has all the qualities to thrive at League Two level after joining Wycombe Wanderers from Boston United on Tuesday.

The 22-year-old striker is the Chairboys’ first signing of the summer and will be expected to contribute to the goalscoring duties at Adams Park next season.

Fifty-four goals in the last two seasons for United prior to joining Wycombe suggests he has quality in front of goal, and Southwell has no concerns about stepping up to League Two level.

“I don’t see it as an issue. For me, I feel like I will be playing with better players and I will be getting better service,” explained Southwell.

“That service will give me a better chance to do well and I don’t think the step up in level will be a problem.

“The physicality will be the biggest challenge, but as a young player I have learned the hard way by playing in the Conference North against physical players.”

Southwell will be under no illusions as to the task he faces after Wanderers’ ailing fortunes in front of goal saw them score just 45 league goals last season.

As a striker, such statistics will only add to the expectation placed upon Southwell’s young shoulders and it will be interesting to see how Ainsworth deploys a player he clearly has belief in.

The Wycombe boss said: “He is a physical player who knows where the goal is and I am confident that his all-round play will benefit us. It is a great step for Dayle and I think he could be really exciting for us.”

Southwell spoke glowingly of the impact Ainsworth had on seeing the deal to fruition after Wycombe beat off opposition for his signature from a host of other clubs.

The former Grimsby Town man, who has also played for England C, says the chance to play regularly was a big draw and part of the reason he turned down offers from clubs in League One.

“A couple of clubs from League One and the Conference had shown interest in me, but I felt Wycombe was the right club,” he said.

“Speaking to Gareth made a difference as well. I was keen to play football and I think I’ll get the chance to do that here.

“I might not get to play if I join a League One club, but I know Gareth will give me that opportunity and I will be able to improve.”

As for a definitive personal target for goals scored, Southwell is remaining coy. He did, however, concede that as a striker he will always be judged by his output.

He said: “There are no expectations on me but on the other hand I have ultimately been brought here to score goals and I am confident I will do that.”