James Brown is eyeing a Blackburn Rovers debut having signed a contract extension today, just two months after joining from Drogheda United.
The flying wing-back initially moved to the Championship high-flyers on a short-term deal until the end of the English season.
But after impressing manager Tony Mowbray in training and during his five appearances for the Under-23s, Brown has been rewarded with a new deal.
The Dubliner has agreed to stay until the end of the 2024 season, with the option of a further 12-months.
Armed with those new terms, the ex-Drog star insists he won’t be putting his feet up as he chases a senior debut having made the bench away to Hull City and West Brom.
Brown, 23, said: “When I first signed, the gaffer was really honest with me and said I was here to try and earn a new contract.
“Some people don't always like that honesty as it mighn’t always be nice, but he had chats with me and, looking back, he was right.
“He said it would be best if I signed what I signed at the time as he wanted to see if I could fit in.
“I think I have done that. He asked me to work hard for a new contract and I’m thankful for that.”
Brown admits he was trying too hard to impress in his first few weeks for the club, but has settled in well to the Premier League hopefuls.
“I was a bit tense and nervous coming over at first, and I realised I had to settle down. But being here every day, mixing it with the lads, it just feels normal now,” he said.
But Brown is eager to make the next step with a first-team appearance so that he can build towards a proper breakthrough next season.
Fourth-placed Rovers are just four points off the automatic promotion places to the Premier League.
But second-placed Bournemouth have three games in hand on them, so the playoffs look the more likely goal.
And Brown knows that despite his new deal, chances could be limited in the short-term as Mowbray will side with his more experienced pros with so much on the line.
Brown told Blackburn Rovers TV: “The contract doesn’t mean I’m just going to sit back and relax because I’ve a few extra years.
“I’m trying to push towards the team and get on for a few games and then push for a start.
“You have to be on the ball every day and there are no hiding places. Every day is a chance to get better. You can't half do it.
“I said coming here that I wanted to make every day count and I have and I will continue to do so.
“Even my numbers, like body fats and fitness levels, are (improving). I’ve played 23s games to get up to speed but haven’t made my debut yet, but I feel ready.
“I was meant to make it but circumstances changed but it’s getting close and I can feel it.”
But Brown added: It’s about the team and if they keep getting results it will be harder for me, but I want to help.
“I'm loving every minute of it and being at the top end of the Championship, with the possibility of going to the Premier League, it’s fun to be honest.”
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