MORTON prospect Alexander King says he is determined to nail down a regular starting spot in Dougie Imrie's line-up this year.

The highly-rated 17-year-old has already made four appearances so far this season and came off the bench at the weekend after last year’s player of the year Lewis Strapp had to come off injured at half-time.

Having signed a deal last September to keep him at the club until 2023, the youngster does not want to waste any time in establishing himself as a key player.

He wants to add to the nine league outings he made last term, whether it is on the left side of the defence or in midfield.

King told the Tele: "In the Hibs game I played with Lewis behind me and I feel like we worked well together.

"It was good but I just need to try and get a spot for myself and keep the shirt once I get it.

"Whenever I get the chance, I know I have to try and impress."

Morton's decision to go down the youth route this season has been well documented, as the Cappielow club try to save cash.

King hopes he can take advantage of that situation and make a big impact.

He said: "I am hoping for quite a lot of minutes this season, that is the goal.

"I am trying to get as many games under my belt as possible.

"I am still young so I’m just learning right now."

King admits there was a sense of regret and frustration in the changing room amongst the squad on Saturday as they failed to take care of 10-man Accies.

He said: "The boys were disappointed, we probably should have got the three points.

"I was told to come on and try and impact the game, keep my position well and help get the three points but it wasn’t to be.

"But you are always happy to get a point away from home in the first game of the season."

Next up for King and his colleagues are Championship new boys Cove Rangers, who opened their campaign with a 2-0 win over Raith Rovers on Saturday.

King says they could be dangerous opponents but he insists that Morton must aim for three points in front of their own fans.

He told the Tele: "I am really looking forward to the first home game of the season.

"I don’t really know much about Cove to be honest.

"I have only seen them play once, last season, and they were alright but we are hoping to try and get the three points at home."