Accrington Stanley defender Ryan Astley is aiming to make a big impact in his first loan spell away from Premier League Everton.
The 20-year-old, who can play centre-half or full-back, has put pen to paper on a season-long loan spell after impressing John Coleman in training.
Astley said: “I am delighted to sign, I can’t wait to get started.
“I have been at Everton since I was about seven-years-old and have gone up through the youth system, 18s and 23s, and this is my first step into men’s football and I can’t wait to get going.
“I am looking forward to where there are three points on the line week in, week out and there is something on it.
“The move came about as my agent got a call from the gaffer to ask if I wanted to come down for a few days and I said yes straight away, I played the game on Saturday, I did ok and we are here now.”
He admits it was strange stepping into a new club after playing all his life at Goodison Park but he felt it was important to make his first loan move.
“I was looking forward to a change of environment, I think I needed that at this time in my career, and the lads are class, they have all welcomed me and it’s been really good.
“First I am a defender, I like to keep a clean sheet, but I can play a bit so don’t mind playing long balls and balls into midfield but my main job is to keep clean sheets and get the three points.
“I want to get more goals, I will put that out there, especially from corners and set pieces.
“I have looked at the League One fixtures. I have heard the fans at the Wham Stadium are very good so I am looking forward to home games.
“Away, I am close to Shrewsbury back home so I can’t wait to play them away and my family and friends can come and watch.”
Astley is a Welsh Under-21 international and says this has been a vital learning curve in his career so far.
“You play against the best in the world at this age so it’s a test every time I play for Wales. It’s a challenge I love, I love playing for my country.”
The full first interview video with Ryan Astley is available to watch on the club's official YouTube channel, CLICK HERE to find out more!