An underdog spirit will aid Selston’s bid for survival, says returning defender Perry Marriott-Lane

The defender has rejoined the Parishioners after two seasons at Pinxton, and is backing the dressing room's all-for-one mentality to produce results.

During his six years with the club, Marriott-Lane won three championships and a league cup with the club.

But now he returns to a team many think will be battling for survival.

Selston were sat 20th in the table when the campaign as declared null and void due to the COVID-19 pandemic and could once again be involved in a relegation scrap.

But that is something Marriott-Lane says will work as motivation for the squad.

"It's what Selston are built on and where our success comes from, knowing that every game people disliked what we had - no budget, just a group of mates who, fortunately enough, can play football," Marriott-Lane said.

"These lads are your mates so you know they're going to back you up no matter what. You go into battle thinking 'let's have it then'.

"It adds to it if people have written you off already. Seeing Selston rock bottom was difficult to watch last season but I'm sure that will give us motivation to prove people wrong.

"I'm up for the challenge, I think the lads are as well.

"We've had a lot of success and it's nice to have the boot on the other foot and know you're going into battle every week, fighting for survival. It's one I'm looking forward to as well."

Marriott-Lane admitted the decision to leave Pinxton, who were sitting third in the Central Midlands League South was not an easy one.

"It was a difficult choice to make as I had a really good time at Pinxton, where I was captain. It's a fantastic club with brilliant people behind the scenes," he added.

"But the opportunity to go back playing at Selston is one I couldn't turn down.”

His return comes with added responsibility as Marriott-Lane will also run the club’s under 13s side this season.

The side are still on the lookout to recruit more players and anyone interested is asked to contact the club.

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