Ashford United manager Danny Kedwell predicting a big future for his new signing from Charlton Athletic

Ashford boss Danny Kedwell hopes to get at least a season out of a player who seems destined for big things.

Teenage midfielder Mikey Berry will officially link up with the Nuts & Bolts after his Charlton deal runs out on June 30.

Kedwell is a big fan of the 18-year-old, who started in Arsenal’s academy before signing for the Addicks aged 14.

He played with Kedwell’s son, Harvey, at Charlton, helping them to the Professional Development League 2 South title last season.

“I don’t think it’ll be too long before people are looking at him,” said Kedwell.

“Hopefully I can get at least a season out of him but I’m not sure he’ll be here too long.

“We’d never stand in a young lad’s way. It’s down to him.

“Sometimes, leaving a club when you’ve been there a long time, people obviously know about him.

“If he starts flying for us, before you know it, they’re knocking on the door.

“That’s how easy it can be but hopefully he does a season at least.”

Berry is gaining experience of men’s football in Sweden before joining Ashford for pre-season.

Kedwell gives him every chance of being a regular in Isthmian South East.

“He’s got a bit of everything,” said the Nuts & Bolts boss.

“I wanted to get a bit of youth into the team.

“He can do something out of nothing and you need players like that.

“You might be struggling in a game and he could come up with something special - that’s what he’s got in his locker.

“I know his dad really well so Mikey’s someone I’ve known since he was a kid and I’ve followed his career since he was at Arsenal’s academy.

“That helped get him over the line.

“He’s got to adapt to men’s football but he’s got the quality to do that. He’s got everything for it.

“He’s still got to grow into a man’s body but he’s a strong