Jermaine Francis made a strong first impression in Sutton United colours, marking his debut with an assist as the U’s were held to a 1–1 draw by Brackley Town.

The attacking midfield completed 90 minutes and was named Man of the Match following a positive start to life at Gander Green Lane, before discussing his maiden outing with Sutton United FCtv.

Despite the shared points, Francis felt Sutton had done enough to come away with more.

“I think we deserved a bit more, to be honest. You could see the way we were playing – we wanted to play football. There was obviously a mistake at the back, but that didn’t stop us from continuing to play our game.”

“Otherwise, I was just really glad to make my debut.”

The former Hartlepool United man played a key role in Sutton’s equaliser, providing the assist after reacting quickly to a loose ball in the box.

Junior Eccleston had brilliantly won the ball back near the halfway line before teeing up Lewis Simper to thread the ball through to Kai Jennings, whose low delivery almost led to a poor miss by Francis who could have tapped the ball into an empty net.

However, he reacted brilliantly to keep the ball in play and the chance alive, before laying it back to Ashley Nadesan to get the game’s opening goal, and mark his debut with an assist before completing the full match.

“The Gaffer told us to stay patient and focus on runners in behind, especially with the high line.”

“I put a cross in and messed it up at first, but I managed to recover and play it into an area without really looking. Thankfully it worked out and we got the goal.”

“I’ve been waiting a long time to get 90 minutes, and that was the main thing for me.”

“You could probably see I was a bit tired at times, but if you keep playing, you’re going to get match fit, so it’s all part of it.”

Having spoken after his arrival about fitting into Chris Agutter’s system, Francis went on to reflect positively on how it felt in match action, having only signed for the club earlier in the week.

“I was a bit nervous, but nerves are part of life and part of your mentality.”

“He told me to go out, be free, and do what I like, while still staying disciplined defensively and keeping the team’s shape. I felt like I got on well with the lads, which is the main thing.”

“Of course, I’m disappointed it was only a draw because we could have got more, but I’m still glad to have made my debut.”

His work rate was notably on show during the match, with Francis displaying his speed and determination on numerous occasions, and the forward was clear about the qualities he wants to keep bringing – and developing – during his time at the club.

“Running is a big part of my game, but I also want to improve technically, with my back to goal, and in how I play out as well.”

“I want to get on the ball more when I play. I want to learn new things and try new things.”