Although not the first Brazilian to turn out for the club – after all, those of you who remember the mid-nineties will recall the names of Umberto Oliva and Alex De Angelis. While in more recent times, who could forget the brief reign of Junior ? – the man from Curitiba is by far the most successful and definitely the most popular !

After starting out with the famous Vasco de Gama back in his homeland, Lucas eventually emigrated to Europe. He arrived on these shores in 2016 and joined the then foreign legion, along with his fellow countryman, Rodrigo Mann, at Whitehawk. His game time was limited at the Enclosed Ground and he was subsequently sent out on loan to Lewes. It wasn’t until he moved down the coast to Worthing and joined the ranks at Woodside Road that he cemented not only a place in the starting Xl but also the hearts of everybody who follows the club.

After picking up his award on the pitch at the end of the final day draw with Brightlingsea Regent, it was uncertain if we would see that big smile and top knot return for the upcoming campaign. Pre-season saw the hugely likeable South American go on trial at the likes of Aldershot Town, Luton Town and Stevenage and, while naturally disappointed at not seeing his professional dream come to fruition, all those club’s losses was certainly our gain.

Summed up by the supporters singing; “We want you to stay, we want you to stay-ay, Lucas Covolan; we want you to stay!” as he joined his teammates for a warm-down after last Saturday’s 4-4 draw at Wimborne Town.

Who says no one listens to the fans?