Aljame Zuill has reiterated his desire to pull on a Bermuda Hogges shirt as he vows to fire his way into Kyle Lightbourne's plans for the next USL-D2 season.

The 31-year-old marksman was a surprise omission from the Hogges roster back in February, with the franchise's hierarchy adopting a policy of selecting youthful players for their first foray into pro-football.

It meant Zuill had to settle for a place in David Bascome's Island Soccer League (ISL), where he starred for runners-up Knights, but still kept a watchful eye on the Hogges' progress, secretly hoping for a call-up.

But despite missing Hogges' history-making inaugural season, Zuill has set his sights on forcing his way into the their next squad by doing what he's done throughout his career — scoring hatfuls of goals.

"I offered myself to the Hogges and I thought something might have happened at the start of their season, but the call never came through," said Zuill.

"Some of their players said 'why don't you come down and train with us', but I hadn't been asked to be part of the squad so I didn't think it would be right to turn up.

"I've a good relationship with Kyle (Lightbourne) and Shaun (Goater) and spoke to them after the first Hogges' game. I did think at one point I was about to sign but the approach never came — but I'm still open to it.

"I went to support them in a few of their games but I had people asking me why I wasn't involved and it's hard to sit in the stands when you want to be on the pitch."

"But the Hogges have told me next year is a possibility and if they come calling for me then I'll be available. I have no problem with their decision."

The prolific marksman, who won last season's First Division Golden Boot, concedes he may have been a victim of his mature years but insists he still has time to make his mark in the USL-D2.

And with the Hogges management looking to add a sprinkle of experience to their ranks next term, Zuill might just fall under their microscope during the domestic season.

"I have only got about four years left and I know I'm good enough to play in the USL-D2," he added. "I've scored about 250 goals in my career and I'm an out-and-out striker — maybe they missed that last season.

"I've already played with most of the guys in the Hogges squad and it would be nice to join up with them. I would have enjoyed the experience of travelling and playing for a professional football team. I believe there's still time for me and I'll just keep doing what I love and that's scoring goals."

"I have a lot of experience and I like my back to goal and that's what most people compliment me on. I like to hold the ball up and pass it before running on, that's my game."