Stoke City U23 coach Glyn Hodges has challenged Julien Ngoy to force his way into the first team.
The 19-year-old forward made half-a-dozen cameo appearances last winter and was officially promoted to the senior squad in the summer before suffering a niggling thigh injury.
Hodges told The Sentinel: “I spoke to Julien in December time last year ahead of the African Nations saying that there was going to be an opportunity for him so to work hard and get himself ready. He did come on and make an impact but he was unlucky in that if he'd have scored or made a goal that would have given him confidence and the gaffer confidence to involve him a little bit more.
“He's been rewarded with a new contract and he's a talent. He's got an abundance of pace and strength which most players at his age haven't got. If he can keep working hard and doesn't get complacent then he can keep pushing on. He could be a real find and a good player for us.
“Let's forget about that contract now, let's get some performances in the first team."
Source: tribalfootball.com