Kevin Wilkin hails AFC Telford United midfielder on return to the team

The former Brackley Town midfielder has struggled to make the impact many expected him to make on the Bucks’ season so far, but his goal at Stourbridge on Saturday looked to have secured his side a crucial three points before Stourbridge’s last-minute equaliser.

And having played alongside youngsters Remi Walker and Harry Hawkins, the latter of which was making his Telford debut, the 34-year-old’s performance was singled out for praise by his manager.

“I’m delighted for Jimmy because he’s worked really hard in training and has had to be patient,” Wilkin said. “The players in front of him have done really well over a long period of time, and he’s probably been a little frustrated, but he had a good game.”

He added: “To cap it off with a goal like he did, both with how he worked the initial moment for Ricardo and then to follow it in was fantastic.

“That’s what he’s capable of, that’s his thing and that’s just what he does; he’s a good goal scorer with good composure and understanding, and I thought his all round game was really good.

“I think it certainly helped Harry, and even with players like Remi – who’s not the most experienced as yet – we do need a bit of balance between youth and experience in there.

“They all did really well for us, especially in a tough game like that where it was hard to get the ball down and pass it.”

Wilkin also provided a fitness update on Walker ahead of Boxing Day, after he took a nasty knock at Stourbridge last time out.

“Remi’s got a little bit of bruising on his foot, and it was a pretty poor challenge on him, but I think after a few days of ice and rest he should be okay for Boxing Day.”