Rotherham United striker Jerry Yates says he is keen to repay the faith shown in him by the Millers staff next season, after he put pen-to-paper on a new deal which will see him remain at AESSEAL New York Stadium until 2020.
The 20-year-old, who progressed through the Academy ranks with the Millers before making his first team league debut in 2016/17, was quick to point to the influence of the club’s staff for his development over the last 12 months and admits he is keen to ensure they maintain that belief in his abilities ahead of the new campaign.
“I'm delighted to sign a new deal and the club has been really good to me, especially the coaches who have helped me a lot this season,” Yates told www.themillers.co.uk.
They've been brave enough to put me in and take a chance on me, and whilst I have struggled at times, they've kept faith in me and hopefully I'll be able to repay them next season.
“There's been a good few moments with the big one being my league debut and the other playing at St. James' Park. It's been a surreal season but it's happened and I've tried to embrace it and the manager has stuck by me.”
The former Harrogate Town loanee has been fully immersed in the first team setup in the 2016/17 season and insists he has benefitted from being involved in that environment as he has looked to make the step up to senior football.
“The lads have been good with me as well and I've interacted with them more and they've helped me along the way,” Yates continued.
“I feel like I'm a part of it and they treat me like every other senior pro, so it's just about me pushing on now and hopefully together we can try and get back to the Championship as soon as possible.
“When I got my chance I thought I've got to take it because it might be my only one because we've got people like Danny Ward at the club. I grabbed it with both hands and I've stayed in and around the team ever since so I'm grateful to have had that chance in the first place.”
The young forward concluded by turning attentions to next season’s League One campaign and admits he is hopeful he and his Millers’ teammates can have a successful season in the upper reaches of the table.
“I'm really looking forward to it because I think with a few additions to the team we have now, we can have a real go,” Yates explained.
“I've not really got any targets in my head other than to try and get as many games as possible. I just want to try and cement a place in the starting lineup and then try and help the team.
“I'll always try my best and work hard for the team and see where it gets me but I've enjoyed it all so far.”