Hodgkinson who only turned sixteen at the beginning of the month makes the step up to the first team from Matthew Clowes Under 16 side becoming the fifth player to make progress from the juniors into the senior team this season, joining Isaac Warner, Bailey Godfrey, Divine Lyamu and Jadon Madondo. Thomas is a strong powerful forward who can operate on either wing alongside being capable of playing through the middle. The teenager has scored bags of goals at youth level and could make his senior debut on Saturday.

Chatting to one half of the management team Daryll Thomas shared his views on another Youngster making the step up:

“A massive congratulations to Thomas Hodgkinson (Hodgey) on being promoted to the 1st team squad. Myself and Bally have been keeping a close eye on him since the Lisbon trip where we spent a few days with the lads, we both thought he was exceptional whilst out there and scored a brilliant goal but for me I thought he really impressed us with his bravery on trying to get on the ball and his work rate against Notts County’s U23s.”

“He trained with us last night along with 7/8 lads from the U16s/U18s and really stood out in the short sided games.”

“He has a sweet left foot, an aggressiveness with his work rate and ability when attacking and can finish! He is someone we are really really excited to work with and watch develop into the men’s game.”

“Having someone still at school in the first team is a huge testament to Hodgey, his family and especially Matt Clowes were just delighted he is 16 and eligible now!”

Speaking to the youngster himself he added: “I’m privileged to be playing for the first team it’s a step up for me in terms of football and it’s going to challenge me at a higher level so overall I’m really happy to be part of the squad and I’ll do my best and give everything for the team. I joined Eastwood around six years ago but I left three years in to join Mansfield Town before rejoining a few seasons ago. Recently everything that is happening at the club has been amazing with the new football education programme and partnership with SL Benfica bringing in the new coaches which have been amazing and i feel it has elevated the status of the club to a much higher standard and I’m excited for what’s to come.”

Hodgkinson will go straight into the squad for Saturday’s home fixture with Stourport Swifts (3pm).

Welcome to Senior Team, Hodgey!