MALVERN Town midfielder Bryan Craven says he is “excited by what the future holds for a club that means so much to me”.

The former youth teamer’s current spell sees Town eyeing a Hellenic League Division One West title push.

Malvern moved up to fourth with last Saturday’s 3-0 home win over Shortwood United.

Town, who have revamped their home with a new artificial pitch, hold five games in hand on leaders Hereford Pegasus who are 12 points ahead.

Craven said of the season: “It has provided plenty of ups and downs for me personally and that probably reflects the performance of the team as well.

“The FA Vase run was great but the way it ended was really disappointing (10-0 defeat at Atherstone Town in third round).

“My target at the outset of the season was to establish a regular place in the starting line-up.

“Given the talent at the gaffers’ disposal I’ve had to be patient at times but I’ve been able to contribute and it’s given me the confidence that I can keep improving in the weeks and months ahead.

“I want to have more influence in controlling games which in turn will give our defenders some respite.

“That’s my aim for the second half of the season as we look to push for the title.

“We’ve proven we are capable of blowing teams away and now we need to learn to win the tighter games.

“I am really buzzing at the way the club is progressing.

“It hurt me when I had to leave but the current leadership are ambitious and searching for perfection which was key to my return.

“The facilities couldn’t be any better. The chairman and board can be extremely proud of what they have produced here.

“It’s nothing short of heroic in my eyes and I am excited by what the future holds for a club that means so much to me.

“I’ve loved it here since I first stepped into the youth team.

“There have been occasions when I’ve had to leave for various reasons such as going to university and having an opportunity to play at a higher level but for me Malvern Town FC is home.

“It’s the perfect football family these days.

“The managers have put together a group of lads who are full of talent and banter and it’s a good mix.

“I am looking forward to what we can go on to achieve this season.”

Malvern host Stonehouse Town on Saturday (3pm).