Sai Sachdev hopes to repay the faith that manager Micky Mellon has shown in him by bringing success to Oldham Athletic.

The young right back is expected to go straight into the squad for Latics' game at Eastleigh on Saturday, despite having played just 15 minutes of senior football so far in his fledgling career.

But he is adamant his move to Boundary Park is one he is ready for, and has gained confidence from that view being shared by the Latics boss.

"The manager's told me what he expects of me. He mentioned he'd been watching me for a while and likes my playing style so to just bring all of that here, don't be afraid, and play with a smile on my face," said the 18-year-old, who signed on loan until the end of the season from Sheffield United this week.

"I'm quite a sharp player, I like to get up and down the flank. I'm positive on the ball, take a man on, get the ball in the box and I'd say quite solid defensively as well.

"I've been looking for a move to men's football to help me progress in my career. I feel like it's the next step and Oldham I feel like are the right club for that.

"They boys have got behind me and made me feel welcome straight away."

Latics head to Eastleigh hoping to recover from last weekend's FA Trophy disappointment and cement their place in the play-offs, and Sachdev is eager to play his part in that.

"When I checked the table and seen where they were it gave me an extra spring in my step and I'm even more grateful to be here," he said, speaking to the club's website.

"To be signed at this stage of the season the gaffer must think I'm a player that can help push for that so I'm really excited to get going and I'm looking forward to Saturday.

"The club's in a good place right now fighting for the play-offs and hopefully I can help them push for that."