JOSH Lillis is aiming to be Scunthorpe United's number one next season – even if Joe Murphy stays at Glanford Park.

The 23-year-old has had to be patient during his five years as a pro with the Iron, mostly being restricted to a bit-part role on the back of the Irishman's impressive displays between the posts.

But having spent the first half of the current campaign with League One newcomers Rochdale, before returning to United to deputise while Murphy was injured, 2010/11 has seen Lillis play more first-team football than ever before.

The young custodian is now determined to move his career forward next term – and that means establishing himself as the Iron's first choice shot-stopper.

"I've played more than 40 games this season, which is good going," Lillis told the Telegraph.

"I definitely needed it, sooner rather than later.

"From now on in my career, I'm looking to be a number one every season. I'm sure that can be next year.

"I feel I'm ready to play regularly for Scunthorpe, most definitely.

"I've spoke to the gaffer about my situation and he told me that he'd seen me at Rochdale and had been impressed.

"I get the impression he really likes me, which is always good."

Lillis is almost certain to get his wish of regular first-team football if Murphy ends his five-year association with Scunthorpe this summer.

The 29-year-old is out of contract and is sure to have offers to stay in the Championship on the back of the Iron's relegation to League One.

Having grown up alongside Murphy, Lillis has learned a lot from his more experienced team-mate.

And although disappointed to have been part of a squad that is dropping down a division, he is confident the foundations are in place for United to enjoy the same level of success as they have with Murphy in goal.

"I've got experience of playing in League One, which will help," added Lillis, who has played 42 games this season, 15 for the Iron.

"There's some good teams in there, but from knowing the team and players we've got, we can definitely be challenging.

"At times this year we've shown, especially since the new manager came in, that we are a good team.

"They've brought in new faces, which is maybe something we needed.

"We've let ourselves down with relegation – and we're the only ones to blame – but it gives us hope for next year.

"I think there's only one way we can go now, and that's up."