VERSATILE Eccleshill United midfielder Jonny Irving scooped the club's Player Of The Season award after a fine first full campaign at the Eagles, which saw him net 24 goals despite largely being played out of position.

It put the icing on the cake in what was a stellar season for him and the club, who returned to the Northern Counties East League top flight.

Speaking to Eccleshill's website, Irving said: "When I signed, (manager) Sean Regan explained what targets the club had and promotion was the main one.

"After the strong finish at the end of the previous season, we all knew we could build on it this year and achieve promotion - and we’ve done exactly that!"

He was pleased to have played such an important individual role, saying: "I’m really happy with my contribution. I would have definitely taken it at the start of season so I can’t complain.

"Hopefully I can build on that next season, and bring even more to the table as we go higher in the football pyramid.

"I obviously prefer to play more central but I’m just happy being on the pitch helping the team out however I can, and thankfully I’ve been able to do that from out wide."

Irving was unlucky to miss the the Eagles' play-off final victory, which saw them come from behind to beat Grimsby Borough 3-2 in extra-time.

He admitted watching from the sidelines was not an experience he enjoyed.

He complained: "It was awful! I was stood on the touchline kicking every ball with Liam Hudson, Jermaine Springer, Ben Hardy and Ben McCready.

"We just had to get behind the boys as much as possible, and it’s definitely more nerve racking when you’re watching than when you’re playing."

The midfielder was grateful that his injury was not as serious as that of team-mate Scott Manning, who broke his leg in the final victory.

He said: "The lowest point of the season was probably what happened to Scott. I hope he recovers fully and is back playing when he’s ready because he’s a great player and a big character for us."