16-year-old Jaden Neale became the youngest ever Nailsea & Tickenham player in their history last Saturday, writes Joshua Thomas.

The teenage winger, who can also play as a forward, came on a second half substitution for Luke Osgood in their 3-2 defeat at last season's Toolstation Western League Premier runners-up Saltash United at the Waterways Stadium.

Injuries to goalkeeper Jason Mellor, Ryan Gissing, Hamish Hurst, James Robinson, Sam Thomas and Nathan Hughes had left co-managers Jamie Smith and Nic Steadman short of options at Saltash and called upon Neale.

And Neate said it was a debut to remember.

"It was a great feeling being part of the squad," Neale said.

"Travelling with the team was good and has given me a taster of what’s to come. Hearing my name over the speaker felt good and I can’t wait to go again."

Neale was a member of Bristol City before his release by the Robins and had been playing with Avon Athletic under-16s

He had a lot of clubs after him, including academies, and both him and his family were known by Reserves manager Dean Perry and took part in some training sessions in pre-season before signing for the club on Friday, one day after his 16th birthday.

And Smith said he has no doubts Neale has a promising career if he continues to do the right thing.

"He’s a very talented young player and will no doubt have a bright future if he continues to apply himself in the right way,” Smith said.

“Jaden will be with both First and Reserve teams this first season to develop him correctly.

"Jaden signed with the club on Friday, on his birthday, and due to some squad changes with the current injury list we had an opportunity straight away to give Jaden some experience with the first team matchday squad. We spoke to Mike (Jaden’s Dad) and Jaden to let them know and they were buzzing.

"Looking past the result It was great to see a such a young player make their senior debut in the Western League Premier Division."

Steadman says Neale has left an impression at the club in the short time he has been there.

“He is very talented, low centre of gravity, great touch, not afraid to get stuck in,” he said.

“He’s going to be a very good player.”