JIMMY Ryan was voted one of the best midfield players in League Two by his fellow professionals last season.

And the versatile former Accrington Stanley ace now aims to prove his worth in League One after penning a contract with the Iron yesterday.

Out-of-contract this summer, the 22-year-old has agreed a two-year deal at Glanford Park, one which the club have the option of extending into a third campaign.

And he is confident his attacking armoury can help United progress in the third tier.

"I'm sure I can make the step up to League One," Ryan told the Telegraph.

"I've got confidence in my own ability and I'm sure, given the chance, I can do well at this level.

"Only time will tell whether that's the case, but I'm looking forward to the challenge."

A tribunal is likely to settle a fee for the midfielder – who is at home in the centre of the park or out wide – with Stanley entitled to compensation as he is under 24.

He revealed how Alan Knill's footballing philosophies were a big factor in his decision to become an Iron player.

"I've come to Scunthorpe because I think I can help the team progress. Hopefully I can," he added.

"It didn't take much selling. I know the way the gaffer likes to play.

"That was the main attraction. I didn't want to go to a team that was just going to boot it."