Joshua Kayode is looking forward to the next chapter in his fledgling football career following his return from a productive loan spell at Gateshead, and having been rewarded with a fresh Rotherham United contract, the 19-year-old is raring to go.
The striker was quick to show his gratitude towards the staff who have helped guide him during his time in South Yorkshire thus far, particularly Matt Hamshaw who has been a key figure in supporting the progress of the youngster.
"I'm over the moon because I've been here since I was 16 and all I really know is Rotherham United. So for the coaches to now say that they're going to give me a new deal, it just shows how much I've come on and how much they believe in me," Kayode told www.themillers.co.uk.
"To be fair, Hammy has been unbelievable with me ever since I joined and I owe it all to him really because he's been really harsh on me at times, but in a good way that has allowed me to develop.
"The gaffer also has my best interests at heart as well and that's all I really care about because I'm here just to keep improving at the moment. They'll know if there's a right time to put me in and hopefully that's sooner rather than later."
Spending time out on loan has given Kayode a taste of first-team football at senior level, and the Millers man insists that the Gateshead move was a critical factor in ensuring he was offered fresh terms at the AESSEAL New York Stadium.
During his stint in the North East, he quickly became a fans' favourite due to his eye for goal and tenacious work rate, traits that enabled him to stamp his authority in the National League North. Reflecting on his time at the Gateshead International Stadium, Kayode had nothing but positive words to say.
"My loan was different because my previous one at Chesterfield was just a month, but this was full-time and six months away which was a new experience for me," he enthused.
"I did enjoy it and they were really good to me as well, so they've played a big part in me getting this new contract. If I didn't go up there, I don't think I'd be here signing this deal to be honest.
"The fans at Gateshead have been amazing too and I'd like to think them because every week, especially at home games, they'd never stop singing my name. I really enjoyed that and it's something that I'll always remember.
"Playing at that level every week has made me appreciate what three points actually mean to people. You could tell that any time we lost, the fans would be so upset about it and I'd feel it myself. I would still be disappointed at reserve games, but it's another level really."