Workington Reds youngster Kingsley Grandison says he hopes his cup appearances will help him break into the first team.

The 23-year-old has played in the Reds’ two Cumberland Cup matches and also appeared in the 3-0 victory over Kendal in The Integro Doodson League Cup.

The defender has made just one league appearance so far after coming on as a substitute in the 2-0 triumph over Sutton Coldfield earlier this month.

He said: “I’m just keeping my head down. Some of the lads have been there longer.

“Both Derek Townsley and Dave Hewson are trying to get me more fit so that’s why I’m playing for the reserves and first team warm-ups.

“My goal is to get fully fit by Christmas. Then I’ll hopefully get a good consecutive run of games, even if it is just cup games.”

Grandison made his first appearance against Kirkoswald in the Cumberland Cup and scored the seventh goal in a convincing 7-1 victory.

He also provided an assist for Scott Allison during their 5-0 rout of Whitehaven last week in the same competition.

He added: “Some of the lads have more experience so they’re trying to give me hints and tips about where to move the ball, my work rate and how I should give 100 per cent at all times.

“Simmo (Jake Simpson) and Phil (McLuckie) are two I look up to because they’re really fit.”

The Reds are next in action on Saturday when they take on Ilkeston before they host Clitheroe in the League Cup on Tuesday.