While Nolan's life as a Spireite begins, young Buck Milner starts life away from the Proact

Life as a Spireite was just beginning for one young man on Saturday, while another is starting life away from the Proact.
Chesterfield vs Notts County - George Milner - Pic By James WilliamsonChesterfield vs Notts County - George Milner - Pic By James Williamson
Chesterfield vs Notts County - George Milner - Pic By James Williamson

One, Jon Nolan, is a recent signing for Town, recovered from a pre-season injury picked up in their Hungary training camp.

The other, George Milner, was released by Chesterfield in the summer and has signed for his hometown non-league club Buxton.

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The pair both came on as second half substitutes at Silverlands in Chesterfield’s 0-0 draw with the Bucks.

For teenage striker Milner, Silverlands is where he can begin to resurrect his career as a part-time player, undoubtedly harbouring hopes of returning to the professional ranks.

He reintroduced himself to his former team-mates within seconds of arrival on the pitch, leaping into an aerial challenge with Laurence Maguire that earned him a ticking off from the referee and a playful clip round the ear from Ritchie Humphreys.

“It was nice to see a few old faces,” he said.

“I’m glad to see they’re doing well, it’s good to see some youth team players involved for Chesterfield.

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“I hope I can progress this season and all the best to them too.”

Neither Milner nor Nolan, who will be grateful to finally see some action, were able to make a particularly noteworthy impact on the game, which ended 0-0.

Speaking after a reunion with his former club, Milner explained how he ended up joining the Northern Premier League side.

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“I went on holiday and had time away and when I came back my agent phoned me up saying Buxton wanted a striker or winger, a versatile player,” he said.

“I came along and played left wing against Darlington and have then played up front and right wing like I’m used to.”

Milner signed a contract with his new club on Saturday and admits he’s had some adjusting to do, albeit with the help of former Football League veterans Martin McIntosh and Tim Ryan, Buxton’s manager and his assistant.

“It’s a lot different from youth team football, a lot more physical, a lot more demanding for a young lad.

“I think I can cope, I’m up for it.

“Martin and Tim know the game well, they’ve been there and done that.

“I’m getting good knowledge off them and they understand me, which always helps.”