August 28 2008

Kieran Djilali

Kieran Djilali is determined to keep his place in the Crystal Palace team after making his full debut this week.

The 17-year-old winger was a surprise starter for Palace's Carling Cup trip to Leeds United on Tuesday night.

He had two substitute appearances in the previous round against Hereford, then the league match with Burnley.

Although Palace suffered a 4-0 mauling at Elland Road, Djilali was just pleased to showcase his skills in such a high-profile arena.

"I enjoyed starting the game - but when you go two, three, four nil down then obviously that's not very nice," he said.

"It's a huge learning curve for me to play at places like Elland Road and Selhurst Park - and it's important not to let the nerves get on top of you.

"I thought I did alright - but there's always moments in games when you think 'oh I should have done this'. Defeats like this happen and I’ve got to bounce back from it, I’m still young.

"My hopes at the start of the season were just to be in and around the manager’s plans - I didn’t expect my chance to come so soon.

"But I was playing with the first-team in pre-season and all I can do is take every opportunity I get.

"The fact Victor Moses, Sean Scannell and Lee Hills got their chance last season gives me a lot of confidence because the manager shows faith in the young lads, he's not scared to put them in. If you're playing well you will get an opportunity."