AJ Greaves is pleased with how he’s progressed since signing his first professional deal at the club a little under a year ago.
The midfielder has played in two Leasing.com Trophy matches - winning the supporters man of the match vote for his performance at Rotherham United - and has been included in a number of League matchday squads.
“As a first year pro, I’m pleased to be involved as much as I am,” said Greaves.
“It was my aim this season to be in and around the first team and get a few games in - I’ve been doing that. I’m proud within myself to be included in as many matchday squads as I have. The gaffer is putting trust in me and I don’t want to give him a reason to not pick me.”
Greaves is benefitting from changes made to the Professional Development Phase by Darren Moore in the summer. He believes that the U23s players take confidence from knowing that the players are being watched by the first-team coaching staff.
“We’re getting looked at quite a lot especially with the new U23s system,” added Greaves.
“The gaffer pulled us in before the U23s league started and set the ground rules and basics – he said that if we’re ready to step up, we’ll be stepping up. On the occasions when we have been asked to step up, hopefully we’ve shown we can do it and now the gaffer knows that if anyone drops out or he needs a reshuffle, then we’re the next ones in.
“I don’t just want to put in good performances on a selfish basis – hopefully, if I’m doing well then that puts a bit of pressure on the two Bens and Madger to do well as well because they know I’m coming up.
“It’s the same with the U18s – I have to keep doing well so that they don’t take my shirt. Will McGowen and Lirak Hasani are up to scratch and I have to be careful because if I dip, then they can take my spot.”
