I may not have been in the last two Charlton squads but that doesn’t mean I’m going to be going banging on the manager’s door demanding to know why I’m not playing!

It’s been a great season so far, for the club and me. When I made my debut at the end of last season, I was determined to try to make the most of the chance Phil Parkinson had given me and carry on what I was doing – which had clearly impressed the manager – into the current campaign.

The manager has made clear – not just to me but also to other players – that if you work hard and deserve an opportunity, he won’t be afraid to put you on the pitch. After that, it’s up to you. No player can argue with that.

I’ve not been in the past few squads but it’s only about 12 months since I was left out of the U18 squad, so it’s been an amazing year.

I’ve only just turned 18 and already I’ve played a number of times for the first team – and even scored on my full debut recently, against Barnet in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.

When I found out I was in the team, I was buzzing. I wasn’t nervous. I wanted to show everyone what I could do.

It took me a while to get into the game but as I got more and more touches, my confidence grew.

All I remember about my goal is the ball hitting someone and landing at my feet with a defender right next to me.

I’m not sure how but I managed to get a quick touch and take it over his foot and then get my shot in. I meant to place it as I did in the corner and I think that’s why the keeper didn’t move because I took the shot so quickly.

It was a great feeling to score my first senior goal and there were plenty of people wanting to talk to me afterwards.

Fortunately, it’s not hard to keep my feet on the ground, not least because while the rest of the first-teamers usually have Wednesday off, I have to go with my academy team-mates to do our college
work.

What’s more, we’ve got our first FA Youth Cup tie this season against Gillingham on Tuesday at The Valley, and although I haven’t played for the U18s this season, I might be in the team.

Jonjo Shelvey still qualifies as well, and played last season even when he was in the first team, so we’ll have to wait and see.