AFC Telford midfielder Henry Cowans flattered by David Beckham comparison

The former Villa starlet has been deployed as a ring wing-back in recent weeks by Bucks boss Gavin Cowan in Telford's 3-5-2 system.

Cowans, 23, is a central midfielder by trade but New Bucks Head chief Cowan has drawn comparisons with Manchester United and England legend Beckham due to his right-sided displays.

The boss stresses it is a 'big compliment' and while Cowans played down the comparison he can see his manager's reasoning.

"It's a very nice compliment," admitted Cowans.

"I'm not sure I'm that highly thought of but the gaffer's right in that while I'm not full of tricks or speed, I'll look to get crosses in by working hard and finding that yard of space.

"It's a position I haven't played in before but I'm enjoying it.

"With the likes of Theo (Streete), Shane (Sutton) and Ross (White) behind me, all talented defenders, it does give you that freedom to still get forward and look to make things happen.

"I'd say my favourite position is in central midfield but I'm there at the moment, enjoying it and learning, and I'm happy to do whatever is best for the team."

Cowans, son of Villa legend Gordon, has netted twice for Telford this season – both coming late in home draws in recent weeks.

That tally doubles Cowans's return from last season in half the games. Now he has found a settled position as a right wing-back for the Bucks.

Bucks chief Cowan said of the ex-Stevenage man: "I suppose it sets up as a right-wing back but, for me, Henry's attributes tell me he is a right midfielder.

"What we've got to remember is Theo is very good in a one-on-one situation so we recover horizontally, not vertically which I see quite a lot of in this league.

"Theo becomes the right-back and the onus is on Steph Morley to recover as opposed to Henry.

"It allows Henry to kick on and not worry about what's going on behind him."

The boss added: "He reminds a little bit – and this might be a really big compliment – of a David Beckham-type player.

"There is no blistering pace or a trick there but he's got an unbelievable engine and great quality.

"As he gets older, he may drift into a central midfield position but that's his position at the moment."