Youngster Neal Eardley has revealed he would be 'happy' to take on a bigger role in midfield for Athletic next season.

The 19-year-old impressed in a midfield berth as he bagged two goals in the final game of the season at Crewe on Saturday.

Manager John Sheridan tinkered with his system over the final games of the campaign, moving Eardley forward on several occasions.

Although the Wales international has played the vast majority of his 92 senior games at right back but looks comfortable in his new role.

"It's a compliment to me because I've gone in there and feel like I've done okay.  The position is new to me and at this level it isn't easy to play there.

"I look at people like Mark Allott and Gary McDonald and pick things up from them, and if I got the opportunity to play there more next season I'd be more than happy."

Eardley struck home his first goal in 32 minutes, cutting outside two defenders before smashing a shot into the top corner.

But his second was even better as Athletic went on to win the game 4-1.  He picked up a square ball on the edge of the box before curling an effort beyond Ben Williams.

"Obviously it was pleasing from a personal point of view - to get two goals and finish the season on a high note was excellent," he said.

"I try shots from distance in training and maybe I could have got a few earlier in the season.  But it's come along now and I'm very pleased.

"We get told on the training ground that we don't have to power shots from distance and I got around the ball for the second goal and fortunately it went in.

"I had a few chances for a hat-trick with a free kick and a few other balls that got laid off to me on the edge of the box.

"I was saying to the lads I probably should have had another goal but the win was great for the boys and a fantastic end to the season."