AFTER a two year absence from competitive football, Neil Thomas is determined to make the most of his move to Melksham Town.

The Welsh midfielder impressed on his full debut in Melksham's 2-1 Les Phillips cup win over Calne Town on Monday night and is now looking forward to the rest of the season with enthusiasm.

Thomas, 21, has not played regular football since joining the RAF two years ago although he did spend pre-season training at Chippenham Town.

His spell at Hardenhuish was brought to a halt because of injury and he has only played football for an RAF side since.

Before joining the forces Thomas was on the books of First Division side Tranmere Rovers and also made an appearance for the Welsh schoolboys.

He is based at RAF Lyneham, which is where he first heard about Melksham.

He said: "One of the current players, Brain Kayll, works with me at Lyneham and he asked me to come down.

"They seem a good bunch of lads and I am really looking forward to the rest of the season.

"I have to admit after my injury at the start of the season, I lost interest in football a bit but it is great to be back and enjoying it again."

Thomas capped his debut on Monday night with a 45 yard strike for Melksham's winning goal and he was more than pleased with his performance.

He said: "It is always important to make a good impression in your first game and I think I did that.

"I can only get better the more I play but it looks as though everything will go well for me and Melksham. I work Monday to Friday normally so my availability should be no problem."