Teenager Noah Carney is loving every minute of being part of manager Andy Hessenthaler’s squad.
The 17-year-old Academy forward, who is in the squad for Saturday’s FA Trophy Third Round tie against Bromley at Crabble, admits he had no idea he’d be in and around the senior team this season.
He said: “Sometimes I pinch myself to make sure it’s not all a dream.
“It has happened all so very fast, but I am not complaining about it!
“Training and playing with the first team is really an unbelievable experience for someone as young as me – it’s an amazing feeling.
“It’s a huge step up in intensity both in training and games to what I am used to, but I am learning all the time.
“The senior players such as Willo (Ben Williamson) have been great in offering advice and I am taking it all on board.
“It is certainly making me a better player and I am grateful to the Gaffer for giving me this opportunity.”
Carney, who is in his second year at the Academy under the guidance of manager Mike Sandmann, signed his first professional contract with the club in August.
Since then, he’s come off the bench in the pre-season games against Watford and Tonbridge Angels.
He scored his first senior goal in our 4-0 win at Tonbridge.
Carney has also made substitute appearances in the National League against Eastleigh, Wealdstone, and at Yeovil.
But it seems it’s not only Andy Hessenthaler who has been impressed by Carney.
Carney, who supports Chelsea, has played his way into the third and final England U18 Schoolboys trial which takes place this Sunday.
More than 240 players started the trial process and it’s now down to the final 32.
Carney (pictured above in blue during England trial action) will head to Birmingham to hopefully continue his impressive form in the trials to date.
He said: “I’ve scored in both previous trials, so it would be good to do it again!
“Whatever happens, I hope my exploits at Dover, the Academy, and the England trials will inspire more youngsters like me to keep working hard because the opportunities will come.”