BOWERS & Pitsea manager Rob Small says he is full of pride after striker Shomari Barnwell signed a two-year professional contract at Dagenham & Redbridge.

Barnwell, 21, has caught the eye of several professional clubs this season, with the Daggers and Cambridge United both courting him in the past month.

But it is the National League front-runners that have won his signature this week, with Barnwell penning the professional deal having played last season in the Essex Senior League.

And Small said he believes the young talent has made the “best decision for the right reasons”, having snubbed Cambridge.

“After Sham went to train with Cambridge last Monday I got a call from Dagenham’s Head of Recruitment Terry Harris who said he was interested,” he said.

“We knew they had been to watch him three times and they had a structured approach. I took him to meet (manager) John Still and Harris and we spoke to them.

“John is a legend of the game so listening to his plans for Sham and what he has done with other players is so exciting. He has an exceptional record of working with non-league players (including Dwight Gayle, Craig Mackail-Smith and Paul Benson).

“I felt this was an opportunity that shouldn’t be sniffed at. Both Cambridge and Dagenham tabled an offer but he chose Dagenham and has signed a two-year professional contract.”

Bowers will not receive any compensation, with the striker not under contract at the Ryman North club.

But that is of little concern to Small, who was full of praise for Still and the manner of Dagenham’s approach.

He admitted the National League manager told him he was happy for Barnwell to play in last Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Tilbury, and would sign him even if he sustained an injury due to their gentleman’s agreement.

While Small says he is pleased he has been able to play a part in making Barnwell’s dream of playing professionally come true.

“Shomari is very willing to learn and will take it all on board,” added Small. “Dagenham were prepared to offer that length deal and that says something “I am thrilled with his decision. He was grown up enough to see the bigger picture. It's a massive leap of faith on their part but he has every chance of making it a success.

“Dagenham let him play for us on Saturday and John said if he breaks his leg we will still sign him as a deal is a deal. I can’t speak highly enough of them.

“I am glad I have had a positive impact on his life. He knows that and it will be a proud day when I see him pull on that shirt.”