EVEN the most ardent of Bury supporters would struggle to recall the name of the pacy winger who made his debut in the 92nd minute of the last game of the season at Stevenage.

But 17-year-old Luke McCarthy is confident he and a few more of his youth team pals can force their way into the Shakers first team next season.

It might only have been for a short time, but the Bolton-born forward, who has spent four years progressing through the Gigg Lane academy, was grateful to Richie Barker for his senior debut and is hopeful of more action in the coming months.

“It was brilliant to get on the pitch at Stevenage,” said McCarthy, who modestly describes himself on the official Bury website as “a player that can win games”.

“I had waited all season to make my debut and I was really made up.

“It was a bit frustrating being on the bench and never getting my chance, but I finally got it on the final day of the season and it meant a lot to me.

“Obviously, Max Harrop also played a couple of times towards the end of last season and I think there are quite a few youth team players for the fans to look out for.

“Danny Hudson is one of those. He is a good, strong striker that scores lots of goals for the youth team.

“He was unlucky not to break into the first-team squad last season because he was on fire at one point.”

McCarthy realises there is plenty of competition for a first-team spot in front of him, in the shape of Michael Jones, Andy Haworth and David Worrall, but is confident of impressing boss Barker in pre-season.

“Richie is a great man, who looks after us all,” he said.

“He knows what I can do so, if I can play well in the reserves, hopefully I can take my chance. I am a quick winger who likes to take people on and get at defenders.

“Hopefully I can do that and put some good crosses in for Ryan Lowe next season.

“I am working hard on becoming stronger so I am ready to hit the ground running after the summer break.

“There is a good group of wingers at this club but I am up for the challenge. I want to start making my mark for Bury FC.”