Rising midfield star Jack Powell is best off staying at Ebbsfleet for now, according to his manager.

The former Millwall player took his tally for the season into double figures last Saturday against Harrow Borough in the FA Trophy.

Fleet boss Daryl McMahon has previously stated Powell could play as high as he wants, although he warned he needs more regular football before making that step up.

“Jack has still got loads to learn, he needs another 40, 50 or 60 games before he can think about anything else because he has got lots to improve on,” said McMahon.

“But he has got real talent and is a good kid as well. I expect him to get better with the age he is at and the mentality to want to go and play in the League again.”

Powell’s stock increased as he was the inspiration behind Fleet’s FA Trophy win, scoring one and being involved in two other goals.

McMahon added: “Jack is rebuilding himself and learning the game. He is a young player who hasn’t got a lot of senior football under his belt.

“He has got 10 goals and a number of assists and if anyone takes a better set-piece in non-league football I will be surprised because he is quite potent.

“When you get him in the right areas of the pitch with time on the ball he can be devastating. Whether he is shooting or looking to slide people in, he normally makes the right choice.”

Fleet travel to Oxford City on Saturday with Bradley Bubb set to start against his old club.

Read the full story in Thursday's Gravesend Messenger.