BILLERICAY Town manager Dean Brennan believes striker Nathan Minhas has an exciting future in the game.

The 21-year-old was recruited by Brennan towards the end of last week, joining from Hellenic Football League Premier Division club Ascot United.

Minhas has scored 20 goals in Ascot’s first 17 games of this season, with the Berkshire side second in the division - which is at step five of the non-league pyramid.

He had previously joined the club from Maidenhead United, having been their U23 team’s leading scorer last season.

And Brennan said he is a player that has been on his radar for a while.

“Nathan has 20 goals in 17 games which is a fantastic return,” said Brennan. “When I was at Hemel Hempstead that was the sort of market I was in and I scouted him while I was there. I had him watched and then I watched him myself and he is very impressive.

“He is dynamic, he knows where the goal is, and he’s a nice kid who works hard.”

Minhas will spend the remainder of this season at Ascot, having penned a two-year-deal with Billericay, but will train with Town during the week.

And Brennan added that Minhas must continue to develop at Ascot and continue to score goals before joining the camp next summer.

“He needs to play games and we will see where he is at come the new year,” said Brennan. “

“He needs to keep scoring goals so he will remain with Ascot. There is no point in him coming here and sitting in the stands.

“Hopefully he will develop there and then start on an even keel when he comes in next summer.

“We believe in young players as they are the future.”

According to Ascot, Minhas requested that he remain at the club this season after his fast start.

And Jamie Tompkins, Ascot’s first team manager, was delighted the deal went through.

“We would like to congratulate him on a thoroughly deserved move after the number of fantastic performances he has displayed since joining the club,” he said. “Nathan’s transfer also demonstrates the commitment and passion of our management team for developing young players and allowing them the opportunity to grow and fulfil their potential. We look forward to seeing his continued progression alongside the squad throughout the season.”

The deal will also include a pre-season friendly between the two clubs.