Former Everton, Crystal Palace, Middlesbrough and Anderlecht winger Yannick Bolasie trains with non-league Spalding United

Spalding United boss Gabriel Zakuani is hoping Premier League magic will help inspire his squad this season.

The Tulips returned to pre-season training this week and Zakuani sprinkled some high quality inspiration with Yannick Bolasie taking part in a session on Monday night.

Bolasie was released by Premier League Everton this summer, after ending the campaign on loan at Championship side Middlesbrough.

The 32-year-old won't be another big-name arrival for the Northern Premier League Midland Division outfit.

Bolasie said: "Gabby and I have been friends for years and I wanted to come and help the Spalding lads out and pass on some knowledge, it was very enjoyable."

Bolasie is a former international team-mate of Zakuani, with both players representing DR Congo.

Having featured for the likes of Plymouth, Rushden and Barnet, Bolasie came to prominence when he joined Crystal Palace in 2012.

He made over 140 appearances for the Eagles, including a FA Cup final defeat to Manchester United in 2016.

That proved to be his last game in south London as his impressive form persuaded Everton to sign him for £25million in 2016. Injury disrupted his time on Merseyside but the player has undoubted talent and loan spells followed at Aston Villa, Anderlecht, Sporting and Middlesbrough.

Spalding boss Zakuani added: "Yannick is my best friend in football and came to inspire my players."

Meanwhile, the club have reported strong ticket sales for the pre-season friendly with Zakuani's former club, Peterborough, on July 28.

More than 75 per cent of the intial allocation have already been sold, with an increase in capacity subject to a change in Covid regulations. Tickets remain available to purchase online.