There's now a clear pathway for players working their way through the Darlington FC youth system all the way to the first team.

Last Saturday, there were three Under 23s involved in the squad for the home game against Chorley — Matthiew Kirokiro, Jack Mortimer and Liam Murray. All of them were given squad numbers and a place on the subs bench.

They were all key figures when our Under 23s won promotion from the Wearside League Second Division last season, and they were invited to train with the first team during pre-season.

19-year-old Matthiew was given a start in the first game of pre-season against Blyth Spartans and capped off a good performance with a debut goal, while fellow striker Jack came on as a sub and also scored in the win at Dunston. Midfielder Liam made his entrance against Sunderland Under 21s.

We caught up with Matthiew at the end of pre-season to talk about his progression and first team opportunity:

How does it feel to join the first team?

"It’s great. It’s something I’ve been working hard towards ever since coming last season and signing with the U23s. My main goal the whole time was to make my way to the first team.

"Any opportunity I had. I was training with them a lot last season. I was in the squad for an FA Cup match.

"Being able to get this opportunity this preseason to show myself and being able to score on my debut was a great feeling. To be shown the confidence from the managers to be given those opportunities is a great feeling."

With that good start to pre-season, does it give you that boost to kick on?

"I’ve gained a lot more confidence the more I’ve been training and playing matches. I think the match fitness and being able to gel with the players on the field really gives you that confidence."

Do you think the U23s really helped you with this boost to get to the first team?
"The U23s promoted me really well. I was one of the main players scoring loads of goals for them last season. They’ve really pushed me to get into this squad. They’ve done really well, and I’m really grateful for all they’ve done for me so far."

Grant Cuthbertson, U23s Manager said- “I'm incredibly proud of the hard work and determination that Matty has put in over the season, and to see him given a chance and taking it with both hands to end up in the first team. It goes to show that the U23s are bringing in the right calibre of players to develop and improve and can compete at a higher level, but most importantly, it shows that there is a pathway from the youth section, 23s to the first team” 

John Walters, U23’s Assistant Manager - "This is a fantastic opportunity for Kiro and a testament to his hard work and dedication. He's consistently shown great potential in the under-23s, and we've been particularly impressed with his recent performances, especially his goal-scoring record. This call-up is well-deserved, and we at the U23’s are confident he will make a significant impact on the first team."

A big welcome to the first team squad to Matty, Jack and Liam - we are excited to see how you progress this year.