BILLERICAY Town emerging talent Will Putt says he is learning every day after being handed a prominent role in Glenn Tamplin’s squad of non-league galacticos.

The 17-year-old defender has been handed the number 12 shirt for the upcoming season and will be hoping to play a part as Town bid to win promotion from the Isthmian League.

He now finds himself second choice left-back behind former England international and FA Cup finalist Paul Konchesky in the pecking order.

Putt says he is enjoying every moment of his time at Billericay, and he has not given up on securing a first-team berth “Glenn said there are 20 players and 11 shirts and it doesn’t matter who you are and that whoever plays the best will get the shirt.

“I don’t mind admitting that when Glenn came in and brought in a lot of new names my future did cross my mind.

“I have been at Billericay since I was 11 but Glenn said to me he was very interested in the youth team and wanted to promote youth.

“He has introduced the likes of Charlie Cole and Brendan Ocran and this is great for players like me.”

Tamplin added prospect Daniel Cheema to his squad on Monday – an 18-year-old winger that had formerly been linked with West Ham United and Liverpool.

Some may have expected Putt to be offloaded in the summer following the arrival of so many star names, with the teenager admitting he was also wondering what the future held for him at the club.

But the talented youngster from South Woodham played a part in Town’s first pre-season match against St Albans City – a 3-2 victory – in which he marked Jamie Cureton, who is 24 years his senior.

And added he is learning a lot from the likes of Konchesky and Jamie O’Hara among other, having made his debut on the final day of the 2015/16 season.

“Things are constantly changing here but the club has always looked after its young players,” he said.

“I was involved with (former manager) Craig (Edwards) and was involved when Glenn came in as well.

“I was involved in the squad from the beginning and playing with men instead of boys meant it was quicker and sharper.

“It was daunting playing alongside such big names at first, but they are very welcoming and humble.

“Guys like Konch and Jamie have been around the professional game for years so their advice is invaluable for someone like me.

“I have talked a lot with Konch as we play in the same position. If I make a mistake in a game or training session he will help coach me through it, which is great for me.

“I can’t wait to get started and it would be good to get a few appearances under my belt.

“There are talks about loaning players out and I may benefit from that but for now I am just focused on Billericay.”