Horner just thrilled to be playing for Hibs

LEWIS HORNER had always dreamed of playing in the Hibs first team, but he never thought that his chance would come this early in the season.

The 18-year-old has been given a run out as a substitute in the two friendly matches Hibs have played in the last few days, against Dunfermline and Queen of the South, the midfielder being fast-tracked into the reckoning following a string of accomplished performances in the Under-19s and, although he knows he still has a way to go, he is keen to be involved as much as possible in the forthcoming campaign.

Speaking of his appearance as a second-half sub at Palmerston last night, he said today: "It was great to be involved last night and get another run out again.

"It's great for my confidence, it shows that the manager has been watching and that he has got a bit of faith in me.

"Being involved with the first team is a great boost for me and hopefully if he watches me play in the 19s I can do enough to show him that I am a good player.

"I didn't really expect to be involved at this stage, although you always hope that you might get a chance but I never thought it would come this quick.

"We train with the first team anyway but to be able to play in a game alongside them is great experience for me.

"He likes to get the young boys involved so that he can take a closer look at them and I think that this just proves that he gives you a chance - it's just up to me to try and take it."

Now that he has had a taste of the first-team action, the youngster is desperate to be included as often as possible.

"My preferred position would be sitting in the middle of the park but, to be honest, I would play anywhere just to get another chance to be involved."