Young striker Jack Marriott is hoping this can be his breakthrough year at Ipswich Town.

The 19-year-old academy graduate scored regularly throughout the youth team age groups and enjoyed a productive loan spell at Conference side Woking last season.

And after providing a typically cute finish in Saturday’s 4-0 win over Irish side Shelbourne, the Blues’ opening pre-season friendly, the front man – whose feet remain firmly grounded – has set his sights on establishing himself as a first team player.

“It’s a massive year for me,” he said. “I’m in the last year of my contract, so hopefully I can get something for the following seasons, hopefully break into the first team and score some goals as well.”

Asked if manager Mick McCarthy had told him what he needed to do in order to add to the two substitute appearances he has made in the Championship so far, he replied: “No, but everyone knows how to please him – just work hard and do things right.

“That’s all I’m aiming to do throughout pre-season and hopefully I’ll get a chance once the season starts.”

David McGoldrick, Daryl Murphy, Frank Nouble and Paul Taylor are all ahead of Marriott in the pecking order at present, while the youngster is also wary of the likes of Darren McQueen – who also scored against Shelbourne at the weekend – coming through.

“Frank’s very quick and athletic, Didzy (McGoldrick) has got a bit of flair, Murph is big and strong and Tayls has got a bit of skill. We’re all different, but they’re all first team strikers and I don’t consider myself to be in that group yet.

“They’re those couple of steps ahead of me and that’s where I’ve got to strive to get to.

“There are a lot of promising young players coming through too, a few nipping at my heels, so I know I’ve got to keep improving.”

He added: “I learnt a lot when I was out on loan, but it is good to be back and good to be back doing what Championship players do day-in, day-out.

“I tend to not set myself targets, I just aim to do my best and see where that takes me.”