Sheppey United manager Ernie Batten sees an opportunity for ex-Crystal Palace youngster James Taylor to push on again following move to the Ites

Ernie Batten believes Sheppey new boy James Taylor has the potential to rise again.

Midfielder Taylor, 21, was in the under-23 set-up at Crystal Palace as recently last year and before that came through Bristol City’s academy.

The former Wales youth international signed for Tonbridge after leaving the Eagles, followed by spells at Potters Bar and Erith & Belvedere.

He made his debut as a second-half substitute against his old club as Sheppey won 4-0 away to the Deres in Isthmian South East on Saturday.

Ites boss Batten said: “I know he’s got a decent background and he’s a young player as well.

“It bodes well if you’re going to build something for the next few years that you can keep lads together who are only going to get better.

“He came on for us on Saturday and he’s got a good engine on him.

“He gets around and, midfield-wise, we will benefit from that and the extra energy he brings.

“We’re happy to have him and hopefully he can play a key part.

“You can see it in bits and pieces when players have been at pro clubs. It’s their awareness and the way they read the game.

“If young players don’t make that breakthrough in league football, it’s about coming down and starting again.

“It’s building confidence and developing your game and if you do that, who’s to say you won’t develop into a really good player?

“I think young players can rebuild in non-league and move back up.

“More and more clubs are looking at non-league players now because if they find a gem there’s big money involved.

“I think there are more opportunities now for young players to get up the ladder than there ever were before.”

Taylor’s arrival was followed by the departure of summer signing Maliq Morris after 19 appearances for the Ites.

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