Ashford United have backed their judgement on striker Matt Day by placing him on contract.

The former Millwall youngster, who lives in Tenterden, played for United’s youth teams before moving to south London and returned to Homelands last season, following his release.

Day scored on his debut in the 2-0 win at Whitstable in April and United coach Shaun Holland is tipping him for a big future.

He said: “Matt is a great lad and level headed, willing to listen to what people tell him and works hard for the team.

“He has got an instant eye for goal, knows where the next pass is and shows so much composure.

“I think he will attract attention from league clubs.”

Holland says the management learned a lot from the 4-1 home defeat by Folkestone Invicta on Tuesday.

He added: “We didn’t close down well and didn’t look sharp, so there is still plenty to work
on.”

Champions United bid for their third trophy of the year when they meet League Cup winners Sevenoaks Town at Homelands on Saturday in the Southern Counties East League Charity Shield curtain-raiser to the new season.

Holland said: “It’s great there’s a trophy at stake in what is a pre-season friendly.

“It will be another cup final for both teams. Sevenoaks manager Micky Collins is always passionate and he will want to come and win.”

Holland also shares manager Danny Lye’s view about United’s emerging youngsters.

He said: “The boys are stepping up - Harry Lavender scored a cracking goal in the win against Eastbourne on Saturday.

“He reminds me of a little Dennis Wise, a whippet in midfield, who makes things hard for the opposition.”

United also send a side to SCEL Division 1 side K Sports on Friday (7.45pm).