WHIZZ-KID Adam Boyd last night warned his Hartlepool United teammates that he wants a first team shirt.

Boyd, who recently signed a contract keeping him at Victoria Park until 2003, has not started a game since the 1-0 defeat to Oxford on October 27.

But the 19-year-old is confident of claiming his place back and he is determined to keep the rest of the squad on their toes.

"I want to be back in the starting 11," said the home-grown talent ahead of tomorrow's home match against Luton.

"It has been frustrating for me sitting on the bench but I'm happy and that's why I signed my contract, which was good for me.

"Hopefully I can get back into the first team then hopefully start to make a name for myself."

The arrival of experienced striker Gordon Watson has proved a major influence on the development of Boyd.

The midfielder, who also plays up front, admits 30-year-old Watson gives him plenty of encouragement.

"Gordon knows what he is doing," said Boyd. "He gives advice to a lot of the lads as well as me. It helps but the gaffer has also been good for me because he has brought me through."

Boyd, along with teammate Mark Robinson, has attracted interest from Newcastle United.

But the crowd-pleaser insists he does not let it affect him.

"Of course it's nice to hear your name mentioned with a big club like Newcastle," said Boyd. "But I don't know anything about it.

"Hopefully one day I will have worked my way up to that standard but all I'm bothered about is trying to help us get in the promotion push.

"We had a slow start but now I think we are showing signs of what we can do at this club."

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