Steve praises the incredible progress made by Guthrie.

Steve Davis believes that the growing confidence of Jon Guthrie is making him one of our most influential players. The defender’s form last season saw him awarded the players-players award at the end of a disappointing campaign.

The former Pewsey Vale defender has now established himself as one of the first names on the boss’ team-sheet and he has set the example for others to follow.

Steve said of Guthrie: “Jon needs to carry on with what he did last season and continue to improve. He performed to a really high level and was one of our better players throughout the season.

“After the end of the season, I said to him that he didn’t need to go away for six weeks and do nothing and to his great credit he had his short holiday and was then back in here working on his fitness and conditioning.

“Jon’s roots are not around here and his family are based down south, but he stayed up here and worked hard to keep that level going. He has got stronger and because he has been playing well, his confidence has grown.

 “I’ve said to him that he can become a bit tougher and more vocal but he has also taken that board and is trying to add that side of it to his game. He has been an example to the others and because of his great fitness levels, he has been able to get the most 90 minutes under his belt.”