Owen Gamble is keen to keep proving his worth in Sunderland under-18s’ team as he looks to make the set up to the development squad.
The Worksop-born full-back has featured on the under-23s bench in each of their last two fixtures against Athletic Club and Tottenham Hotspur.
Despite not racking up any minutes, the 17-year-old believes being involved in the matchday squad has presented him with the perfect chance to see what is expected next year once he has completed his scholarship.
Gamble also told safc.com the opportunity has opened his eyes to the importance of doing the ground work now in preparation for next season.
“It has been brilliant being on the bench and seeing what it is like in and around the under-23s on a matchday,” he said.
“I was a bit disappointed to not get on but the two games showed different sides of football.
“Athletic Club was a passing game whereas the Tottenham match was a scrappy long ball game so it shows the different ways of football and what to expect in the development team.
“It’s where I want to be so it’s great to step up and see what it’s like,” he continued.
“I need to get used to the way of playing and if a chance does come before the end of the season it will be good preparation for next year.”
