THE number one spot may be occupied but teen prodigy Cammy Gill is keen to continue his climb up the Pars charts.

And the young keeper hopes that will mean a top team appearance in the coming season after he admitted he’s “buzzing” to step up as Allan Johnston’s back-up between the sticks.

The highly-rated 19-year-old is set to begin the season as first choice Sean Murdoch’s deputy after the summer departure of the experienced David Hutton and he reckons it’s another positive step in his development.

A regular in John Potter’s under-20 side last season, Gill was handed a new deal in January to keep him at East End until next May, just as speculation began to link him to clubs including Celtic and Hearts.

Speaking to Press Sport, he commented: “That gave me a bit more confidence in myself – that’s all I took it as because it’s just rumours, isn’t it?

“It’s good to be back and everyone’s flying. I’m buzzing to be the number two this season; it’s a step up and another step closer to where I want to be. I’ve got another big step to go but obviously Murdo was unbelievable last season so I don’t expect to be ahead of him. But I’ll try my hardest to push him and, when the time comes around, I need to be confident and show my ability.

“I’ve been about the first team for a while and have been on the bench a few times. I’ve been able to see what it’s like on a Saturday, the right and wrong way to prepare, and it’s about being prepared mentally because there could be a red card or injury. You have to be ready.

“Having a goalie coach (Davie Westwood) has been good because we never had that for a wee while, and he pushes us in training. It’s good to watch and learn from Sean too and he’s a massive help, showing me things I could do better and also positives in my game.”

Gill, who went out on loan to League Two champions Arbroath last season, continued: “I played near enough every game for the 20s and went on loan. I didn’t play in any games but it was good to get out of my comfort zone and learn from the other goalies there.

“I’ve been working hard and it’s good to see it paying off, slowly but surely. I couldn’t be happier; I want to play in the first team but, at the same time, I have to take a step back and realise that I’m still only 19 and learning.

“It’s important to take things in stages.”