Hornchurch’s Liam Nash set for Europa Conference League bow

A Hornchurch player is set to experience one of football’s top European competitions – as he plays in the Europa Conference League.

Liam Nash has been given permission by the Urchins to miss part of the pre-season campaign after signing a four-week loan deal with Gibraltar side FCB Magpies.

They are set to play in the preliminary rounds of the competition, with the draw sending them to Irish side Dundalk.

Hornchurch’s new manager, Steve Morison, said: “Whilst we are looking forward to our pre-season campaign, we felt we had to let Nashie take part in this fantastic experience of playing in the Conference League.

“We hope he will have some great experiences, play well and stay injury free.

“We expect him to return to the club for the Braintree game on July 25.”

The player himself was overwhelmed with the chance.

He said: “It was an opportunity that came about from my time in Gibraltar. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity for me so I spoke to the chairman and Steve Morison who were both supportive of me playing.

“I can’t thank the chairman and gaffa enough for being so supportive in what will be a great experience for me.

“I hope to do you all proud and I look forward to returning for the end of the Urchins pre-season, hopefully a better player for the experience.”

The games are scheduled for July 13 and 20.