Leiston manager Glenn Driver has backed Conor Hubble to put the pressure on the Blues’ midfielders as they enter a crucial stage of the Ryman Premier season.

Former Colchester United youngster Hubble (22) in his second spell at Victory Road – having scored seven times in 17 games during his first – and rejoined the club from Billericay Town last month.

He made his return in the Blues’ 2-2 draw with Dulwich Hamlet on January 28, and is pushing for a first start for the promotion-chasing side.

Ahead of fourth-placed Leiston’s home clash with struggling Staines Town tomorrow, Driver, who allowed young midfielder Regan Pelling to join Bury Town on a one-month loan deal today, said: “Conor is a baller.

“That’s all I ever seem to sign, players that are comfortable on the ball.

“He has an eye for a pass and always looks to go forward, rather than sideways, and that will suit (strikers) Matt Blake and Niko Muir.

“His arrival has freshened things up, we are a little light in the central midfield area – playing the same two or three players there recently – and he has come in and put the pressure on.”

Following a defeat and a draw in their last two league games, Driver is keen for his players to build some momentum during a busy February that includes home games with Staines, Harrow Borough, Merstham and Wingate & Finchley.

“I am hoping we can build some momentum and we are looking to pull away from sixth position,” added Driver, whose side are nine points adrift of leaders Bognor Regis and five points ahead of sixth-placed Enfield.

Leiston’s midweek game at home to Tonbridge Angels was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch, as was their recent scheduled clash at Merstham.

“It’s been frustrating, I expected to play the Merstham game, but I knew ours would be touch and go, but we have made some repairs to the pitch, so fingers crossed,” Driver said.

“A lack of games can have a detrimental effect on your players but our training has had an extra edge to it this week.”