New Stanley loan signing Matt Macey is looking forward to experiencing League Two football during his month at the club.

The 20-year-old has signed from Premier League Arsenal and can’t wait to step up from under 21’s football to the Football League.

The former Bristol Rovers has been an unused sub for the Gunners this season but is now concentrating on nailing down a starting berth for the Reds.

“I’ve been looking to get out on loan all season but due to injuries it didn’t quite happen,” he explained. “Part of developing into a top goalkeeper is going and learning your trade lower down the leagues and learn proper football, that’s what people say. It’s about adding that competitive edge to your game.

“I went away to Austria with the Arsenal first team in pre-season which was a good experience and then just at the beginning of November I was on the first team bench for a couple of games. Now goalkeepers are back from injury and it’s time for me to come out and play some proper football.

“The plan when I signed was to go out on loan and that’s what they are looking for. There’s nothing better, especially for a goalkeeper. It’s all about experience at the end of the day.

Macey trained with his new team mates for the first time yesterday and was impressed by what he saw.

“It’s a very friendly atmosphere and everybody seems quite positive,” he said. “From the people that I’ve met so far it seems like a great place to be and I feel right at home already.

“I had an idea of what it would be like before I came here so it wasn’t a shock to the system. I know what the football’s like and that it will be different to playing in the reserves at Arsenal so I feel well prepared.

“The management here are enthusiastic and passionate and have made an immediate impression on me. They really want to take the club to the next level and we’re in a good position in the league already but there’s no looking back and they are just looking to get higher. The atmosphere around the place is positive and wanting more really.”

Macey could make his debut in tonight’s game with Bury, making him the seventh goalkeeper selected by Stanley this season.

He insists he won’t be overwhelmed by the occasion.

“I like the big games,” he enthused. “That’s when I perform best. I like the pressure and being chucked in at the deep end doesn’t really phase me. I feel ready and want to take the opportunity.”