CONNOR Hall wants to complete a dream 2017 by forcing his way into Phil Parkinson’s first team plans at Wanderers.

The Berkshire-born striker was named on the bench for the first time on Saturday as the Whites beat Norwich City 2-1 and followed that up with a hat-trick for the development squad in a 6-1 mauling of Hull City on Monday night.

Just eight months ago Hall was released by Sheffield United and contemplating life as a non-league footballer, signing dual registration with Woking and Mickleover.

But now the 19-year-old is knocking on the door of the senior set-up having signed a first professional contract with Wanderers in the summer.

“It has been an incredible 10 days or so,” Hall told The Bolton News. “I spoke to my parents the other day about it - I’ve gone from leaving Sheffield United in League One, where I couldn’t get into their team, to a couple of months later pushing for a place in a Championship side like Bolton.

“It’s happened a lot faster than I’d expected it to but I’m determined to keep it going.”

Wanderers’ development coach David Lee was alerted to Hall’s availability at the end of last season and after a trial he was brought along on the pre-season tour of Scotland.

After sampling the first team atmosphere, the youngster is determined to follow Jeff King’s lead and challenge for a spot in the Championship line-up.

“I’d love to think I can push to get a place on the bench more often and then maybe make a debut before Christmas,” he said. “I feel like I’m playing well but obviously that is up to the manager.

“He is great with me and the lads. He watches all our home games, so it keeps you on your toes.

“Training with the first team is massive. He will often pick some of the younger players to make the numbers up in training and it’s a test for us getting used to the intensity, especially for the Under-18s.”

Hall’s hat-trick against Hull has strengthened his claim but the youngster admits the presence of some of Parkinson’s established first teamers was a big help.

“It was great having Will Buckley, Craig Noone, Derik and Kingy around me creating chances. It’s perfect for a striker,” he added.

Meanwhile, Wanderers are offering a new festive bundle of discount tickets for home games against Barnsley, Burton and Cardiff when purchased together. Prices are £65 , £50 for Over-65s and £20 for Under-18s.”