Former Heanor Town player Sam Jones loving life at Alfreton Town

The former Leeds United player chose Alfreton ahead of a host of other clubs chasing his services and he says the Reds are perfect for him.

The attacking midfield player from Doncaster signed for Leeds aged 15 and gained a two-year scholarship during which time he represented Wales at under-19 level.

“After having a fragmented career since being released by Leeds, suffering a back injury and then breaking an ankle playing for Armthorpe, I fell out of love with the sport and didn’t know how to deal with it,” explained Sam.

“I went travelling round Australia, played a bit down there and then came back to lower league stuff in England before spending the last few months of the 2013/14 season at Retford.

“But at the start of last season I committed myself to Heanor Town for a first full season and said to myself let’s see what happens.

“I had a good season, top scored for the club from midfield and my aim is to progress to get as high as I can. Quite a few clubs were interested but as soon as Alfreton came in, that was perfect for me and I am ready to crack on.”

Sam, 23, says he is a reformed character nowadays and thinks his situation is somewhat unique for someone so young.

“In my first scholarship year at Leeds I was always getting hauled in for being late for training, etc, but I found Jesus, and am now a Christian, working part time for a church.

“My life has totally changed around and is now a different ball game.”