Max made his debut in Tuesday's defeat at Shildon with a positive performance wide left in his first taste of competitive Northern League football. He is a member of Stockton's successful U-18 squad and is looking forward to broadening his experience with Northallerton.

"It's a good chance to play men's football. There's the physical side to get used to and it's also a bit quicker," says the youngster, whose preferred position is striker.

Max, who will also be joining the Middlesbrough T6 Academy next month when he turns 17, is looking forward to teaming up with his friend Frankie Alderson, who will be signing for Northallerton on his 16th birthday in a few days' time.

"It was good to meet the lads on Tuesday and I enjoyed the banter," he says.

We thank Stockton for their assistance with Max's registration.