ACCRINGTON Stanley midfielder Luke Joyce has his eye on an extended stay at the Crown Ground after enjoying the chance to play first-team football this season.

The 22-year-old joined Stanley on a one-year deal last summer in search of games after struggling to become a regular at Carlisle United.

Joyce, who is likely to be involved again when Stanley travel to Crewe this afternoon, said: “I’m just hoping I can do enough to guarantee me something for next season.

“I’ve been happy playing first-team games. I’ve made 40-odd appearances so far this season, which is a great achievement for myself.

“The most games I’d played in a season before was 16 or 17, so it’s a massive improvement.”