AFC Telford vs Curzon Ashton: Max Leonard aims to silence doubters

The 23-year-old attacker joined the Bucks from the Manchester side in November and, by his own admission, is yet to show supporters his true ability.

And he is eager to demonstrate to Telford fans – and staff at Curzon – he is good enough to play regularly in National League North.

“It is a game that I am looking forward to,” said Leonard.

“I have a point to prove, to prove to their manager that I am good enough to play in this league.

“I have had an OK start here, but it has not been as good as I wanted.

“I need to get in more positions to score goals, I know that.

“I know I can do more and I need to just keep working hard, and show what I can do.”

Leonard is aiming to reach double figures in goals for the Bucks this campaign.

He managed four for Curzon in the early stages of the season and is yet to score for Rob Edwards’ side.

The former Huddersfield Town youngster played for the Nash as Telford lost 1-0 at the Tameside Stadium back in August, but found game time hard to come by towards the end of his spell there.

“I still look out for their results as I enjoyed my time there,” said Leonard.

“It seems pretty much like the same side, apart from a few, from when I was there.

“The manager, John Flanagan, always said to us that he wanted to play the right way.

“They like to go out there and play attractive football but, in this league, good football will only get you so far.

“You need to be able to mix it up against different teams, some are very physical and direct.

“I think that we can do that, it’s just a case of it all coming together.”

At Curzon, Leonard played as a No.10, in behind target man Niall Cummins who scored the winner against Telford.

He felt that partnership worked well and hopes to recreate similar chemistry between himself and his fellow Bucks forwards.

“Niall is a very good player. He was the No.9 and I was the No.10, linking things up,” said Leonard.

“I was scoring goals and enjoying my football but then the manager decided to go with someone else, and I wasn’t playing.

“I do think that is my best position, as a No.10, and that’s what the gaffer sees me as.

“John Marsden, who is a very good player, also plays in that role and it’s good competition for me.

“What I want to do is score goals and provide them, create chances.”

Before his spell at Curzon, Leonard was prolific for Glossop North End. He won their managers’, players’ and supporters’ player of the seasons awards for them last term.

He also clinched their golden boot award, having scored 17 times in the Evo-Stik Northern League First Division North – two tiers below Telford.

“I love scoring goals and it’s something I’ve always done,” added Leonard.

“Going through a drought like this is frustrating but once I get one, I’m sure they’ll come regularly.”