Ashford United striker Danny Parish tells of his special relationship with Nuts & Bolts fans | Homelands return put back again

Striker Danny Parish has spoken of his bond with Ashford United fans.

Supporters took Parish to their hearts during his prolific first spell with the Nuts & Bolts.

Their “Super Danny Parish” song was heard weekly as Parish scored 25 goals in the 2018/19 season to fire Tommy Warrilow’s side to a play-off final.

Moves to Maldon & Tiptree, where he reached the FA Cup Second Round, and National League Wealdstone followed before ending up at Canvey Island.

But he always planned to return to Ashford one day and the opportunity arose midway through last season when Warrilow heard of his availability.

His relationship with Nuts & Bolts fans remains and he can’t wait to play in front of them again at Homelands, where the new 3G pitch is almost ready for action.

This Saturday’s Isthmian South East game against Merstham has come too soon, however, with the fixture switched to Chatham (3pm).

“For me, it’s mainly the fans,” said Parish, when discussing why Ashford have been such a significant club in his career.

“When I was there that first season, they really took to me.

“It was the first time I’d ever had a fanbase sing a song about me and, being quite young at the time, it was surreal.

“I’ve always had that relationship with the fans and even after leaving I always said I would definitely return to Ashford one day.

“It didn’t know when it would be, because I had aspirations to play a lot higher, but I knew at some point I’d return.

“That relationship was always going to be there.

“I really enjoy it at Ashford.

“What helps is, even when I’m not playing at my best, the fans remember that season I had and they know what I’m capable of, so they stick with me.

“As a player, when you’re not performing at your best for one reason or