Herne Bay youngster Elliot Cutts has spent this week on trial with Championship club Middlesbrough.

The 18-year-old striker made his debut for England Schoolboys earlier this year and boss Sam Denly is delighted for him.

He said: “It’s brilliant for Elliot and the club. Elliot definitely has the make-up of a boy who could make it in the pro game and has a great attitude as well.

"It could be a big year for him – he will certainly get his chances with me.”

Denly was happy with his side’s performance in their opening pre-season friendly, despite the 2-1 defeat to Ryman League, Division 1 North side Tilbury at Winch’s Field on Saturday.

Cutts opened the scoring after 68 minutes, the Essex club levelled six minutes later, before grabbing a 90th-minute winner.

Denly said: “I was encouraged by some of the things I saw. We played some good stuff at times, went 1-0 up and were cruising.

“I had a strong bench and made a lot of changes but it was a good run-out and I already know I will have some selection headaches when the season arrives.”

Denly confirmed that former Folkestone and Leatherhead midfielder Darren Smith has completed his move to Winch’s Field.

Bay entertain Ashford United on Saturday (3pm).