James Kaloczi believes Wingate and Finchley could sneak into the Ryman Premier play-offs this year.

The 19-year-old spent the first month of the season at the Harry Abrahams Stadium, making 10 starts and one appearance off the bench, as they picked up 20 points from 33 on offer.

Despite receiving a reprieve from relegation last season, Kaloczi, who scored once during his loan spell, expects Wingate to surprise a few teams.

“I really enjoyed my time at Wingate and would like to thank the coaches, Stuart Lake and Gavin King, and the manager, Daniel Nielsen,” he said.

“They have got a good bunch of lads down there and they will do well.

“I think this year is about staying up initially and then they have a good chance to sneak into the play-off places. We know that anything can happen in the play-offs.”

Since Kaloczi’s departure, Wingate have lost to 3-0 to Lewes and beaten Harrow Borough 3-1. They start their FA Cup campaign this Saturday at home to Ipswich Wanderers in the first qualifying round.