Curtis Bateson says he is “improving and developing as a player” during his loan spell at Gainsborough Trinity.
The 19-year-old’s loan spell was extended by a month this week, following his man of the match performance in Gainsborough’s 6-3 victory against Colwyn Bay at the weekend.“I managed to get four assists and man of the match which was good for me,” said Bateson. “I’ve been playing out of position on the right wing too so that makes it even better personally. I’d definitely say that was my best all-round performance so hopefully I can keep it up.”
The Scunthorpe-born youngster, who usually operates as a forward, says he found it difficult playing on the wing at first, but has since come round to it.
He said: “It’s certainly a different test for me. It’s hard playing out of position but I’ve improved lately and am enjoying it.”
The first year professional claims he is enjoying his time at Gainsborough and is glad to have extended his stay, having spent some time on loan there last season.
He added: “I went out there to play games and that’s what I’m doing,” he said. “I’ve put in some decent performances with some great results so it’s going well.”
His time at Trinity last campaign helped him settle in this time round, he says. “I know most of them from last year so it was easy for me to fit in. There are a few new lads but they made me feel very welcome," continued Bateson.
Bateson has had conversations with Mark Robins about his development and they both agreed the best thing would be to go out on loan to get some game-time.
“I’d rather be on loan than sat not playing football,” said the forward. “I train with the first team during the week and play for Gainsborough on the weekend, so I get the best of both worlds.”
Bateson is yet to feature for the Iron’s first team, but has many reserve and youth team games under his belt.
He says: “Every game in the Conference North is fast with a high tempo so it’s definitely a lot harder than youth team fixtures. Matches may not be as technically good as in the reserves but the pace of the game is quicker."
“I feel like I’m developing and improving as a player,” he continued.
“I didn’t know too much about non-league football but it is a good standard with a lot of quality players in there, including ones that have played in the Football League.”
Gainsborough currently lie 13th in the table, seven points off the play-offs, something Bateson feels the club should be aiming for.
He says the league is very close but the club is hoping to push for the top six, while he just wants to keep playing games and improving as an individual.