BY JACK HARLAND

 

AVELEY skipper Liam Nash says being made captain aged just 20 has breathed new life into him.

Nash was made the Millers skipper in January and since then both his individual and the team’s performances have gone up a notch.

Aveley have registered three thoroughly impressive victories under Nash already, winning away at Tilbury, Phoenix Sports and, last weekend, thrashing Witham Town 5-0.

On loan from Billericay, Nash has 24 goals and 11 assists in 38 appearances this season, clearly proving himself as the figurehead of the Aveley team on the pitch.

Some people, however, would say that 20 is too young to be captain, but not Nash.

“I am the youngest player in the team, of course it could be overwhelming when there are a lot of big characters in the dressing room,” he said. “But it has matured and brought life to me.”

He added, “It was hard at first but I’m growing into it and myself and the team have really kicked on in the last few games.”

Having previously played for Hullbridge Sports and Great Wakering Rovers, as well as parent club Billericay, Nash already has a strong non-league resume and will be keen to kick on up the leagues.

Despite his age, he understands the responsibility that he has taken on.

“You’ve got to be the one they turn to when things aren’t going well,” he said. “It’s my first time captaining a side so it’s daunting but I’m relishing it.

“I’ve worked hard in the gym and on my game. I believe you get what you work for and I have worked hard.”

Currently sitting in 12th place, Aveley are 17 points off of the play-off positions, though with games in hand on those above them and Nash says the play-off are not yet out of the question.

He said: “We’ve got a great bunch of lads and I believe we can push for promotion, top five is what we are aiming for.”