CARLOS Moreira is ready to step up to men's football after leaving Hereford FC to join Cinderford Town in the Southern Football League Premier Division.

The 18-year-old has opted to depart from Edgar Street after realising his first team opportunities would be restricted for the forthcoming campaign.

"I didn't come on against Pegasus [in Hereford's first pre-season friendly], so I spoke to Beads [Hereford manager Pete Beadle] afterwards and said that I didn't want it to be like last season – I want to play and be involved ," explained Moreira.

"He said that he thought I was good enough but because of what they are trying to do, he didn't think I would start many games and may be I would be better to play my football elsewhere."

Moreira will be hooking up with United in the Community (UITC) prodigies Lewis Fletcher and Sam Oxley.

"Beads must have rung them [Cinderford] and I spoke to Lewis, who was there last season," added Moreira.

"They're nice boys and it's good to play with people my age."

Moreira, who played some games for Pegasus Juniors last season, said he is not worried about the financial problems that have dogged Cinderford.

The Gloucestershire side lost an appeal to stay in Southern Football League South & West, with many players joining manager John Brough out of the club.

Town are now managed by Allan Gough and Chris Burns.

"They want to have a competitive squad that is good in that league and they wanted me to join the club," added Moreira.

"It's good to be involved rather than not at all or only getting five or 10 minutes."