AFC Telford boss Rob Edwards delighted as Aaron Simpson bounces back

Right-back Simpson, aged 20, put a couple of below-par outings behind him with an assured performance as the Bucks beat Tamworth 2-0 on Tuesday night.

Telford chief Edwards – who made 15 appearances for Wales – was mainly a centre-half but also played as a right-back so knows what the Wolves loanee has been going through.

“Simmo’s a really good character and, like all players, everyone needs confidence to be at their best,” said Edwards.

“At times during the season you’re fighting for confidence, searching for it, and you can be waiting for your best form.

“And when you’ve got your best form it’s about trying to maintain it.

“And other times, when the team has struggled results-wise, that’s going to affect individuals as well.”

Simpson has played 15 times for Telford this season.

He is one of three Molineux youngsters that have been sent out on loan to the Bucks – the others being centre-halves Connor Johnson and Aaron Hayden.

“I know that position out there, right-back can be quite a lonely position, you can feel isolated at times,” said Edwards.

“Your one v one defending has got to be good, but then you’ve got to be good in possession as well because the ball gets out to you quickly, but I was really pleased with him (on Tuesday).

"His energy was different class and his leadership skills were there, he’s always talking.

“Like all the lads, especially in that back unit, they were really impressive.”

While focus shifts to the FA Trophy clash against Droylsden at the New Bucks Head tomorrow, Telford are in a decent position in the National League North table.

They are 12th, four points off the play-offs having won eight games, drawn one and lost 10.

“Shows how tight it is. Look at the table now, it looks better,” added Edwards.

“It’s still very tight, I don’t want to get carried away because there are a heck of a lot of teams in there.

“Everyone is waiting for someone to make a move.

“I think it just shows the quality of the division.

“Most of the teams can beat anyone on any given day.”