Airdrie defender Joshua Burke hopes to repay the faith of boss Ian Murray and director of football Stuart Millar after penning a new deal.
The 18-year-old has been added to the first-team squad with the Diamonds ‘mothballing’ their academy and reserve set-up amid the Covid-19 outbreak.
Burke, who was part of the successful Reserve side who lifted the League Challenge Cup last term, now hopes to take his chance in League One.
The teenager is hoping to play a part in a title push for the New Broomfield club, as they gear up to battle the likes of Falkirk and Partick Thistle next term.
He said: “Last season was a really tough division and it will be the same again.
“That’s what you want though; you want it to be challenging.
“It will be good to get some games against some experienced, top players at this level.
“I know the gaffer is huge on bringing through young players, which you saw last season.
“There were loads of young players who made their debuts, and I think now he just wants to see us push on and grab the opportunity that the club have presented us.
“I know Stuart had said it’s now time for us to prove ourselves, so I think it’s now just down to us.
“They have been great with all the encouragement they have given us and especially with their backing.
“They have put their faith in us by taking us from the reserves in such a tough league.
“I don’t want to let Stuart or the gaffer down after they facilitated me getting my deal.”
Burke reckons the dressing room at New Broomfield is a great place to develop after training with the top team last term.
“I had a great time last season with the reserves and it was a great bunch of boys,” he added.
“It was a relatively successful season and we managed to win the Challenge Cup, but obviously I’m really excited to go back as part of the first team.
“I got a wee taste of some first-team opportunities last season and was at training. Considering how well we did last season there was a real buzz about the place.
“It’s a great squad and they make you feel really welcome.
“It was unfortunate the way the season ended but throughout the season there was just a real buzz about the place with how well we were doing.
“I don’t see why we can’t aim for the same thing next season.”
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