Dagenham & Redbridge boss John Still: Craig Robson is a natural leader

Craig Robson of Dagenham & Redbridge (pic: David Simpson/TGS Photo) ©TGS Photo tgsphoto.co.uk +44 1376 553468

Daggers boss praises defender’s development after giving him captaincy at Southport

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Fejiri Okenabirhie of Dagenham & Redbridge and Ryan Higgins of Southport (pic: David Simpson/TGS Photo) Fejiri Okenabirhie of Dagenham & Redbridge and Ryan Higgins of Southport (pic: David Simpson/TGS Photo)

With skipper Scott Doe on the bench and vice-captain Luke Guttridge injured, many would have expected Andre Boucaud to don the armband at Southport on Saturday.

Instead, it was Craig Robson who led Daggers out in their National League clash away to the Sandgrounders.

It came as something of a slight surprise to those in the press box to see the 25-year-old given the role, but it was clear why he had been from the early exchanges.

Robson marshalled the backline brilliantly and was as vocal as ever from start to finish, fully demonstrating his leadership credentials.

The captaincy capped a remarkable rise for the centre-back who only moved to Victoria Road from Ryman Premier side Bognor Regis Town in the summer.

But Daggers boss John Still says he has been thoroughly impressed with Robson’s development this season.

“Craig is a leader, I knew that when he came in,” he said. “When I look at some of the boys, like Craig, Fejiri Okenabirhie, Corey Whitely and Oliver Hawkins, from where they’ve come from, how they’re doing is fantastic.

“We took a chance on taking so many in, but touch wood it continues to go well.”

Another to catch the eye at Haig Avenue at the weekend was Okenabirhie, who grabbed a goal and an assist.

It was another impressive performance from the 20-year-old after returning from injury in January, but Still says he is still trying to nurse him back to full fitness.

“Fey is not as fit as he can be yet, but he’s getting back to fitness,” added the 66-year-old.

“We missed him, it’s as simple as that. Competition is for places is good now too.”