U18 Striker Max Naylor provided his reaction after he made his senior debut against Prescot Cables on Tuesday.
Max opens by expressing his emotions on his first team debut, stating: “It’s a very special moment.
“I got a text from Michael [Dunwell] last night saying let me know if you’re available tomorrow to play and I couldn’t believe it.
“I only joined Stockton U18’s at the beginning of last year, so I didn’t expect to make my way up this quickly, so I’m very proud of myself.”
He describes that moment hearing his name called to get ready by saying: “I can’t lie, I had butterflies in my stomach when I come on, but I got used to it and I’m very happy.”
The 16-year-old has played a key role in the U18’s success since he joined the club, and credits his U18 coaches for his development since he joined: “They’ve put a lot of graft in to making me a better player, they’re a big part of who I am today and they push me through and through.”
Now with a first team appearance in his bag, Max can keep working for the chance at more, starting with the huge Durham Cup game against Horden CW next Tuesday: “It’ll be amazing if I were to be involved with that, it’s a big game for the club and everyone knows that, so I’ll be ready if I’m called upon.”
