Winger Jay Manning joined Newlyn from former League One rivals Foxhole at the start of pre season training in the summer. Speaking to Saints Sports News for the first time, the 22-year-old spoke about his decision to make the move to Cargoll Road.

On signing for the club…

It feels good. I’ve spoken to the manager many times. There was interest last summer but I’m just happy to be here now and finally get it done.

On why St Newlyn East is the right place for him…

It’s a fantastic club, everyone knows that. I’m happy to be on board. I believe in the project for the next 12 to 18 months and I feel like this will be a place where not only will I have a chance to ultimately play in a higher division but also develop as a player as well.

On his excitement for the remainder of the season….

The league position is a big factor to why I came. I looked at the table and I believe I can add a lot to the team and help them get into the higher division so that was a big part in my decision making to come.

On knowing Jadon Gotthardt, Nathan Prentice and Martyn Probert already…

I had a few messages beforehand from the lads and I knew if I had anything to ask, I could speak to them. It makes it easier because I’m not coming in blind, and they are people that know me and understand my personality, so it makes it a little bit easier.

On his first impressions of the place…

I came here with Foxhole a few seasons ago ago but straight away when you come in you see how brilliant it is. Seeing all the pitch and the set up, I think it’s definitely going to be somewhere I enjoy being this season.

On whether he’s confident he can maintain his performances with Newlyn…

There’s a lot of things in my personal game that I’ve improved. I feel like I’m a different player and I couldn't wait to get going. With the conversations I’ve had with the managers, they've both already told me how they see me improving and how I can fit into the team so I’m looking forward to it. It’s been a long time coming but I’m here now and was excited to get started and get everything going. I feel like I'm having a very good year and can't wait to see how it finishes. I feel like this was the right time for me to take on this new challenge and I’m ready for it.