Liam Delap has no intention of leaving Manchester City when he returns to full fitness.
The 18-year-old striker has been frustrated this season with a series of injuries that has limited him to just four academy appearances, none lasting more than an hour.
Delay had gone into the campaign as City's only recognised striker after the departure of Sergio Aguero, but those injuries have changed his focus to recovery rather than development under Pep Guardiola.
His return to training earlier this month raised suggestions that he could be sent out on loan in January to kick on this season, but no deal materialised and he will now share his time between the academy and first team.
Looking ahead to the summer, Delap is likely to be in demand once more given his prolific record at youth level and when representing the first team. However, last year's academy top scorer says he is planning to remain among Guardiola's squad.
He told the National : “I’m training with the first team every day and it can’t get better than that. We have some of the world’s best players and they are right up there because of their attitude in training.
“They are all winners, they don’t like losing a tackle, never mind a game. They know what they do on the training pitch goes towards the manager’s selection for games and the intensity in training at City is something else.
“To be part of that is amazing and every day you are learning from the way the players apply themselves and from listening to them. It’s a great environment for a young player to be part of. The great thing is that they treat you as equals too. It’s very competitive but there’s no looking down on the young players
“I am so happy here it feels like I have been here forever. I just love the place and all the people. I can’t wait to do even more.”
Regarding his future beyond next summer, Delap said his primary aim is to continue progressing at City.
“Football is all about healthy competition and driving up your own standards and those of the team,” he said.
“Everyone has to work so hard to get a place in this City side. We all know how tough it is and how rewarding it is when your name is in that squad which is one of the best there has ever been. So I will just do my best, work as hard as I can and see where that takes me.
“I’d say my biggest strengths are pace, power and finishing. I like to use my strength and size. I’m not what you would call a nimble, technical player but I’m very competitive.”
