Ebou Adams has vowed to get even better after announcing himself as a star of the future in Monday’s north Kent derby.

Adams was a surprise inclusion for Dartford against Ebbsfleet at Princes Park, where he made only his third start for the club whose academy he graduated from.

But the 19-year-old looked right at home in the heart of midfield, scrapping toe-to-toe with former Gillingham players Dean Rance and Stuart Lewis.

Adams was named man-of-the-match and although Darts lost 1-0, he was beaming after the game.

He said: "It was just amazing. I was shocked when Tony Burman read out the team sheet and said my name. To come out, perform and get MOM, it’s unbelievable.

"It was a big game and a massive crowd so I had to keep calm and play football, which I did. I’m happy with myself.

"I just love having a battle with a bit of aggression. To come up against such an experienced side and do well, not to lose concentration, it’s good."

Dartford boss Burman decided to start Adams after losing Barry Cogan to a chest injury at Margate on Saturday.

Burman said: "We could have gone another way but Ebou played. He’s waited patiently and he’s not even made the squad, he’s not even been on the bench in previous games.

"I just felt Monday wouldn’t be a bad day for him against their three in the middle of the park.

"He’s up against Nobes, Bradders and Barry Cogan in there but he’s one for the future.

"We have to be careful because he’s enthusiastic and a bit fiery. He got booked and we brought him off because he could have got sent off.

"He’s that type of player but he had a good game. He’s got legs and going to be a good player for this club."

Adams came through the academy with defender Ronnie Vint and winger Kaka Dembele, who have both shown their quality in games already this season.

He said: "Ronnie, me and Kaka are making a point. We’re telling everyone we’re not kids any more.

"We’re no longer youth players so whatever happens out there, you can blame us.

"It’s a good thing we’re playing out here, making an impact and showing we’re part of the first team."

Read the full interview in the Dartford Messenger.