AFC TOTTON boss Louis Langdown would be fibbing if he said he wouldn’t want experienced defender Stuart Mott around on a more regular basis.

But with Army man Mott away on military duty, Langdown is thrilled to have two talented young centre-backs to work with.

Twenty-year-old Jack Smith’s arrival from Farnborough has coincided with outstanding Evo-Stik South West wins at Larkhall Athletic (1-0) and at home to North Leigh (2-1).

And, in 19-year-old former Fawley AFC defender Callum Chugg, Langdown has unearthed a gem from the Wessex ranks.

“Jack’s a no-nonsense defender and he has other attributes too. He talks his way through the game, barks out orders and gets us in shape," said Langdown.

“As for Chuggy. What a find he’s been!

“For him to come in and be a regular is fantastic. He’s turning into a really good player.

“I was watching Tobi Adekunle and Pip Nolan playing for Team Solent against Fawley last season and Chuggy stood out that day.

“We spoke to Fawley’s Lee Burch (former Totton head coach) and he said he had the raw attributes to play higher.

“With Dave Allen still around, we thought Chuggy would be an understudy – and what a good one to have! But due to injuries and budget restraints he’s had his chance and he’s taken it.

“Of course we’d love to have Motty every week, but we haven’t got him and these two young lads will go into battle for you.”

Totton, four points behind leaders Bristol Manor Farm in sixth, head for in-form Wimborne Town on Saturday with Langdown knowing what to expect.

He and Magpies boss Matty Holmes crossed paths many times on the staff at AFC Bournemouth and Langdown said: “Matty's one of those who wants football played the right way, but he’s still got the old school values of effort, desire and clearing your lines when you can.

“Everyone I’ve ever spoken to about Matty respects him.

“Wimborne have just beaten Evesham and Bideford away – and you won’t find those two losing too many at home – so we expect a tough game.”