DAGENHAM midfielder Dave Rainford has admitted that he is content being the only part time player in the football league, writes James Randall.

The 28-year-old teacher divides his time between the classroom and the football pitch, and told BBC Essex that his life is balanced.

He said: "I've got the perfect balance in my life and am really enjoying it.

"When I'm at Dagenham and Redbridge, I'm David Rainford the footballer. When I'm in the staff room I'm David Rainford the teacher."

He added: "There's a bit of banter and the kids are the worst, they're quite sharp and if you give them a chance to take the mickey then they will."

Rainford (pictured) is in fine form this season and has netted seven goals to help the Daggers steer clear of the relegation postions.

And he is glad all the publicity is thanks to his football rather than his other job.

"It's nice at the moment because a lot of the publicity I'm getting is about my football and the combination my life has got is fantastic, if not eventful and hard work," he said.

Rainford has been with the east Londoners since August 2006 following spells with Colchester, Slough, Grays and Bishops Stortford.

He should be in the Daggers starting line up to face Macclesfield tonight.