Pavey targets pro deal
PROLIFIC Alfie Pavey is targeting a professional contract at Millwall after scoring 125 goals for Maidstone United’s academy this season.
Pavey leaves the Gallagher Stadium today (Friday) after securing a two-year scholarship with the Lions.
The 17-year-old impressed on trial at the Den and will begin training with his new club on June 24.
He said: “My aim is to break into the under-21s to start with. If I start scoring goals, I want to look to get a pro contract by the end of the two years.”
Pavey was almost unplayable as United won the Conference Youth Alliance last season.
He played a series of matches for Millwall under-18s before being offered a scholarship which will see him play and study with the club.
He said: “Millwall heard how many goals I’d scored and wanted to have a look at me. “My first game was against Crystal Palace and I scored in a 3-1 win. “They had me in for trials and I played four games in about seven weeks, whenever I had time off at Maidstone. “I scored again when we played Southend at the Den but we lost 3-1.
“The game at that standard is a lot faster and the ball comes into you a lot harder, so it takes more concentration.
“I had good games and bad games but I got used to it towards the end.”
Pavey made his United first-team debut in an Isthmian Cup tie and was set to feature in boss Jay Saunders’ plans next season.
He credits Maidstone for making him the player he is.
The striker said: “If I hadn’t been playing in such a good team, I wouldn’t be in the position I am. They feed me and I just finish the chances.
“I’ve enjoyed this year a lot and the club have really supported me, so a massive thank you to them.
“Jack Parkinson (academy coach) has been behind me all the way.
“I’ve learned a lot from Bill Williams (chief executive) and Jay Saunders gave me first-team experience.
“I know I won’t get anywhere near 125 goals next season because of the level I’ll be at.
“We’re in an academy league against teams like Brighton, Leeds, Cardiff, Swansea, QPR, Charlton and more.”