Lewis Billington hopes he has done enough to earn another first-team start against Notts County tomorrow (Saturday, 3pm).

The homegrown defender was called into action to face Derby County in the FA Cup last weekend, and he performed admirably in just his fifth appearance.

Now the 19-year-old is keeping his fingers crossed he will stay in the team to start against the Magpies in a second-versus-fifth clash.

Billington said: “My aim was to give the Manager something to think about and hopefully I did that.

“It’s down to the Manager - all I can do is prepare well in training and see what happens on Saturday.

“I definitely enjoyed it (against Derby). We have a few injuries in the camp and although I didn’t expect to start, I felt ready.

“It was tough; a good test. I had previously raised the question to the Manager about going out on loan but injuries happened and I got my chance so I’m glad I stayed. 

“We’d have snatched your hand off for a 2-2 before the Derby game but the way it finished meant it felt like a loss. But the lads should be proud, we did well overall.

“Now (the Notts County game) is a great opportunity for us – it's all to play for near the top of the table.”