A promising young footballer has vowed not to let racist thugs stop him playing his favourite sport.

Concord Rangers striker Manny Williams was kicked in the face and had his watch stolen at Benfleet station by two robbers who bombarded him with racist abuse.

The attack left the 18-year-old student needing treatment at Southend Hospital for a head injury and swollen eye.

He said: "I was really disappointed by the attack as I had never experienced any racism on Canvey. My mum did not want me to come down here any more but I was not going to let them interfere with my football.

"It is my life and something I want to make a career out of. I always looked forward to coming down here."

Manny, who travels to Canvey every weekend from east London to play for Rangers, vowed to carry on playing after a boost from youngsters on the island.

During half time in a game against Southend Manor on Thursday night he was presented with gifts as a token of friendship from the island's young footballers.

Youngsters in the Island Boys Football Club were so upset and angered when they heard about the incident they wanted to do something to show their support for Manny.

They clubbed together and bought him a sports watch to replace the one stolen. On the box was a plaque engraved with the words "Friendship in sport."

Manny's Rangers team-mates presented him with a tracksuit as a token of their esteem.

Touched by the gifts, Manny said: "This has really restored my confidence and has shown there are people who care about me. Tonight has really made me want to continue coming here."

Manny, who is studying for a sports science and recreation NVQ, shows great promise and has already been singled out for praise by Southend United.

Terry Hayes, youth development officer, said: "He's got a lot of potential and wants to go all the way.

"The attack on Manny sickened a lot of people. This is Canvey - we don't want those sort of thugs here."

Friends in sport - young soccer players show Manny that he has their support

Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

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