CHRISTIAN Sloan is delighted to get an opportunity with Barrow AFC's senior team after signing first-team forms with the club.

Barrow's under-21s captain was confirmed as being signed up by first-team manager Ian Evatt today and goes straight into the squad for tomorrow's Vanarama National League match away to Ebbsfleet United.

Midfielder Sloan, who has played West Lancashire League Division One football with Hawcoat Park too, is grateful for the chance and cannot wait to get started.

"I couldn’t be happier to be given a chance with the first team, it’s what all the lads in the U21 side are aiming for," said Sloan.

"I’ve got to thank the gaffer for the opportunity and Craig (Rutherford) and Tony (Callister) for all they have done. Hawcoat Park FC have also been fantastic with me, Trevor Houston especially."

Sloan was playing for the under-21s as recently as Monday evening, when he helped them secure a 3-2 win over Lostock St Gerards in the Lancashire FA Under-21 League.

And head of youth Tony Callister is pleased to see one of the youngsters get this chance.

"The news today that Christian has signed first team forms has given everyone at the performance centre a huge lift," said Callister.

"First-team boss Ian Evatt has a vision for the club and this includes the inclusion of players coming from through the centre.

"This is a special day for myself as this programme was set up by Neil Doherty, and in my last three years this is what I have been aiming for as head of performance."