BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent boss Tom Rothery says Rob Harvey will do "everything in his power" to make a name for himself at Millwall.

The R's midfielder has been on the Lions' radar for months and, after impressing during a recent trial, has now put pen to paper on a one-year contract with the Championship side.

It is an enormous opportunity for the former Colne Football Academy graduate, who has been training with the first team under the watchful eye of manager Neil Harris.

And Rothery says that knowing him as he does, the teenager has exactly the right attitude and determination to be a success.

"From day one, our only interest has been doing the right thing for Rob," he told the Gazette.

"As a club, I'm really pleased with the way we've handled ourselves and I genuinely feel he's at the right club in Millwall.

"They've been brilliant to deal with and this is the right opportunity with a club that are going to treat him well.

"Things have worked out as well as they possibly could and what an amazing chance for Rob.

"He's now got a year to stake his claim and, knowing him as I do, I know he'll do everything in his power to give himself the best possible opportunity.

"He's so dedicated and will do whatever he can to give himself the best chance to progress.

"He's got so much potential to grow and develop.

"I'm excited for him because when you're a young lad of his age, you dream about turning professional and being able to play for a living.

"If you're passionate about something, that's what you want and there are plenty of examples of lads his age going from non-league to having a career in the game. Look at Jamie Vardy and Nick Pope."

Harvey's success has also been met with pride at the Brightlingsea Regent Colne Football Academy.

He has part of their programme for the last two years, training every day and studying a three-A Level equivalent BTEC Sport course.

"We're absolutely delighted for Rob and really proud of his achievement," said director of sport Jon Taylor.

"He's worked really hard with us over the last two years to develop his all-round game and he overcame an injury this year to return even stronger.

"Rob has a fantastic attitude and loves playing football.

"This is the start for him and his dream but, with his mentality and work ethic, he has every chance of fulfilling his potential.

"We wish him all the very best for the future and will be keeping a very close eye on his progress.”

West Bergholt-based Harvey, a former student at Colchester’s Philip Morant School and College, had a trial at Ipswich Town last season before spending time with West Ham in October.

Millwall have been tracking his progress since September - scouts were at R's games last season - and he previously trained with their under-23s.

The R's have been in contact with Millwall’s head of recruitment, Alex Aldridge, since October.