Sittingbourne manager Ryan Maxwell sees a big future for 18-year-old forward Codey Cosgrave and explains why talks with Chris Harris are on hold

Sittingbourne could have something of a wonderkid on their hands following their latest summer signing.

Codey Cosgrave, 18, arrives at Woodstock after finishing last season with Bishop’s Stortford in National League North.

The former Enfield and Grays attacker is an exciting prospect for Brickies manager Ryan Maxwell.

He previously recommended him to Stortford owner Steve Smith.

“He’s a very talented boy,” said Maxwell. “He had a taste of non-league at Enfield and Grays and it’s no secret the people at Bishop’s Stortford are friends of mine, certainly the owner.

“He asked me last season should I sign him and I said yes, because he’s got something.

“With Stortford coming down and moving into the Southern League, we’re a little more attractive location-wise being in the Isthmian League and I’m looking forward to working with him.

“He’s a gutsy, fiery guy, a young man with ability who can play in a few attacking positions.

“He’s got a lot to learn but having spoken to him numerous times, I’m sure he’s a quick learner so I thought I’d take a gamble.

“I like to take a gamble with young talent and try to nurture it and develop it as best we can.

“He scored a lovely goal for Bishop’s Stortford against Banbury.

“He took it with real composure, which is something you don’t tend to have at that age. That normally comes a bit later.

“It was an experience for him playing National North.

“As an 18-year-old, if you’re playing first-team football at any level, you’re fortunate.

“When he got in the team they were already relegated and he could be thrown in with no pressure.

“Of course, he’d have put pressure on himself but he handled that well.”

Cosgrave gives Sittingbourne different options in attack and age is no barrier to selection.