Talismanic frontman Jack Defty has been hailed as one of the best striker's at Step 5 of the non-league ladder by his King's Lynn Town boss Gary Setchell.

The popular number nine has been in fine form since returning from a long-term knee injury earlier this month, scoring three goals in Lynn's last four games.

Setchell paid tribute to his big centre-forward and declared his return to action has provided a massive boost to his side's United Counties Premier Division title hopes.

The Lynn boss said: 'For me, Jack is simply the best striker around here at this level.

'He's not the most pleasing on the eye and we'd all like him to get a bit fitter - but if he did get super fit he wouldn't be playing at this level.

'Jack's had lots of injuries this season and he's played with lots of injuries, unbeknown to people outside the medical staff and myself.

'He's not the type of player who moans and groans, he just gets on with it. A lot of players wouldn't have played half the games he has during the past two seasons with the problems he has had.

'Every time he steps in the dressing room and pulls on a shirt it gives the rest of the lads added belief.'

Defty, who has scored 151 goals in 387 appearances for the Linnets, has been an ever-present at The Walks since 2001 - apart from a one-year spell at Corby Town during the 2009/10 campaign.

Setchell insists the fans' favourite offers more than just loyalty and goals to Lynn with his excellent link-up play allowing others to flourish around him.

'You can see in our last two games that Danny Beaumont has been more confident playing alongside Jack - he breeds that confidence into players,' said the Linnets boss.

'He makes it easier for the midfield players because they've got someone to roll it to their feet rather than it coming straight back. They can make runs knowing they'll get the ball.

'Last season Jack played about 60 games for us and by the end of it he was out on his feet. Now he'll be fresh for our run in which can only be good news for King's Lynn.

'He had two months off in the summer, played two months and has had another two months off during the season. So he's had a good rest. Having him back is like signing a new player.

'We need to keep him fit but he's now started coming down the gym which will help. We're delighted he's available again because there aren't many Step 5 clubs who can call on a striker like Jack.'

Defty is expected to start and once again captain his side tomorrow when Lynn host Cogenhoe United in the league (3pm).