CAPTAIN James Knight believes Binfield FC have a bright future – and he is aiming to carry on leading them from the front, writes Dave Wright.

The inspirational midfielder has just completed two seasons where he played every minute of every game.

And that is a record he is extremely proud of, admitting: “Not many players do that because of injury and suspension.

“But I have managed to look after myself and I feel my performances have warranted it, though I am still grateful to the gaffer (Roger Herridge for that).”

Knight, who has made 155 appearances in three seasons for the Moles, was rewarded when he skippered them to victory in the Perpetua Press Floodlit Cup with a 2-1 win over Thatcham Town, the Hellenic League champions and FA Vase finalists.

They also finished seventh in the league, having held sixth place for much of the time before a slight loss of form towards the end of the season.

“I think we can do even better next season,” he added.

“It is vital we keep hold of the players we have now, but we also need to add two or three more. If we do that, then I think the future is looking really bright for Binfield and I want to be part of it.

“There is not a better club to play for in this area. Once you start playing here, it is very difficult to stop.

“It is a superb outfit from top to bottom, on and off the pitch.”

Herridge is certain to retain Knight as skipper, saying: “He has been excellent for us in all the time he has been with us and is a great captain.

“He works his socks off for the entire 90 minutes week in, week out.

“There are not too many people at any level in non-league football who have played in every game for two seasons running and it’s close to three as I think in his first season there was only one game where he started on the sub’s bench.”

Herridge continued: “All my players deserved to win the Floodlit Cup, but perhaps James more than most.

“If you want to play non-league football at any level, you have to be committed, and there are not many players more committed than him.

“He wears his heart on his sleeve and sees the captaincy as an honour. He always wants to do well for himself and for the team.

“We have probably the best team spirit we have ever had, certainly in the last couple of seasons, and James keeps the lads together.

“He is a proper captain and I cannot speak more highly of him.”

Knight picked up two trophies at his club’s presentation evening, winning the manager’s player and supporters awards.

Ian Davies, the club’s record scorer, was voted the club’s player of the season as well earning their Golden Boot award, while Will Shaw was voted the most improved player.