LEISTON joint first-team boss, Darren Eadie, has spoken of his Club’s pride in the progression of attacking winger, Finlay Barnes, who has joined National League York City.

Finlay, 22, has signed for Step One, the Minstermen, after having joined Leiston from Norwich United in June 2020. He made 116 appearances for Leiston, scoring 36 goals - one goal every three games. A fee has been agreed between the two clubs.

And while obviously disappointed at losing such a talent, Darren knows the move to York City is a huge opportunity for the former Norwich City youngster, an opportunity that Leiston feel happy they have played a part in.

“I’ve known Finlay for a long time and always been a great admirer of his. He did well at Norwich United at Step 5, but I always knew he could go higher,” Darren said.

“When we saw him and before we signed him, I said to Chris (Wigger), we can develop him and let’s see where it goes. So, we pat him on the back and say well done to him on his move.

“Us as managers and Leiston as a football club should take massive pride from Finlay’s move. As much as we want to succeed as a team, for me this is as big a win as winning a trophy.

“It’s a pat on the back for us and the football club that players are getting to the levels they are getting to.

“So, yes, we would love to have kept him, but we wish Fin all the best, he’s a natural talent. And I hope he fulfils all the dreams he has.”

FLYING SPENCER looking to light up Victory Road

And Darren hopes Finlay’s progression will show other players how Leiston as a football club can help them achieve their dreams.

“Why we attract players in the first place is because Chris (Wigger) and me have always had the attitude that we want players to succeed with, or without, us,” Darren added.

“We’re realistic how we compete with clubs around us in our League budget-wise, but when bigger clubs come in for our players, we are going to be up against it.

“But moves like this for Finlay also puts it out to other young players who want to progress, that Leiston as a football club will help you do that.

“As I said, we always want to succeed as a club, but sometimes the fall-out of a successful season is that some players move on, and players’ progress. But for me that is still a big win for Leiston football club.”

On his move to York, Finlay said: "I'm so pleased. As soon as I spoke to everyone at the club and heard about the project, I couldn't wait to get here and get everything sorted."

Meanwhile, as part of Fin’s move to York City, the Minstermen have agreed to a pre-season friendly with the Blues at Victory Road next season.

FORMER Ipswich Town defender joins Leiston