Zane Okoro believes his time with the first team has helped accelerate his development.
Okoro was named on the bench against Harrogate Town in the Carabao Cup and the forward was grateful for the experience.
He said: “It was a good experience being in that environment and being around the first team. Hopefully there’s more to come.”
Okoro was involved with Michael Skubala’s side throughout pre-season, making a number of appearances including starting the game at Oldham Athletic, and he believes his time spent playing in friendlies and training at the Elite Performance Centre has helped him improve.
He added: “Seeing games out is one of the main things I’m picking up, being reliable on the ball is another thing I’ve been told to be better at.
“It’s also helped me in the physical side of the game, protecting the ball, coming out of tight spaces and things like that.”
Okoro returned to City’s U18 side on Friday afternoon against Mansfield Town helping the Imps to a 3-1 win with an influential performance.
He continued: “I found it good, obviously I haven't played here in a while but it was good to be back with the boys and get three points.”