Ely City boss Brady Stone is backing goalkeeper Harry Reynolds to be a big hit at a higher level.

Reynolds is set for a summer move to St Neots Town who play in the new Southern League Central Division – two steps up the non-league ladder from Thurlow Nunn League Premier Division side City.

Reynolds has earned rave reviews during his two-and-a-half years in Ely colours and Stone is delighted to see his number one progress in the game.

“Harry goes with our blessing,” insisted Stone. “Everyone at Ely City is delighted for him to have earned a great opportunity.

“We will really miss him, but it’s pleasing to see a player progress in the game.

“He has been tremendous for us and the only surprise is that it has taken so long for a higher-level club to come in for him.

“Harry kicks well, talks well and his shot-stopping is unreal. There is no doubt in my mind he can be a success at Step 3.

“I know the St Neots manager Matt Clements well and he will guide Harry in the right way while continuing his development.”

Reynolds was on the books of League Two side Cheltenham Town as a youngster and then had a spell with Soham before joining City in November, 2015.

Stone is closing in on the signing of a new goalkeeper. Locally-based Evan Jeckells is likely to succeed Reynolds as the City number one.

Jeckells spent last season with fellow Thurlow Nunn League Premier Division side Haverhill Rovers while on loan from St Neots.

Central defender Ollie Brookes is the only other confirmed departure from City this summer. He has taken up a teaching post in Moscow.

Stone hopes to have ‘four-or-five’ potential new recruits at pre-season training which begins on July 3. He also intends to appoint a new first-team coach ahead of the 2018/19 campaign – his fifth full season at the helm.

City have six friendlies arranged including a Friday-night home fixture against Wisbech Town on July 20.

That’s their only outing at the Ellgia Stadium with their other summer fixtures all away.

Stone’s men go to Chatteris Town (July 7), Linton (July 12), Yaxley (July 14), March (July 27) and Lakenheath (August 4).