RYAN Blackman admits last season was a significant learning curve after deciding to leave Canvey Island.

The Gulls skipper made the move to Enfield Town last weekend, opting to remain in the Isthmian Premier Division following Canvey’s relegation.

But the 22-year-old had nothing but praise for Canvey, who he joined last November.

“It is nothing to do with the club,” he said.

“I can’t praise them enough. They have great fans and the play progressed throughout the season.

“But I want to stay at that level of football and I explained that to (manager) Danny (Heale) and the club.

“There have been a few remarks on social media saying ‘money talks’ but it is not about that, but about the love of the game.

“I want to play at as high a standard as possible.

“I progressed last year as a player.

“I learned more about the game and my role in the squad so I can’t thank Canvey enough for that.”

Blackman had initially told Heale he would be remaining at the club for the new campaign.

But he said a move to his local side changed his mind, following a season in which he made 25 appearances for Canvey, scoring six goals.

“I am a local lad and have always kept an eye out for their results,” he said.

“Enfield are pushing on and I hope, with the players they have brought in, that we can challenge.”

Blackman added that he was backing Canvey for promotion next term, following their relegation.

And said he believed that their strong end to the season would be enough to keep them up.

“It was disappointing to go down and I don’t think we deserved it as we were so strong towards the end of the season,” he said.

“I want them to go up and I think they will. They are strong and have brought in well.

“So I wish them all the best next season.”

>Canvey will be looking to reinforce their midfield, following the departure of Harrison Chatting last week.

The midfielder joined fellow Isthmian North side Heybridge Swifts yesterday.