JOE CHALMERS is hoping he can do enough to impress Mark McGhee to keep his place in the Motherwell starting line-up.

The former Celtic left-back was brought in by Ian Baraclough in the summer as back up to club stalwart Stevie Hammell, but has ended up playing 13 games as a result of the veteran being ruled out through injury.

It has presented the 21-year-old with an unexpected opportunity to prove to Well boss McGhee that he has what it takes to remain in the team even when Hammell returns after the international break.

“Coming in I knew it was going to be tough to get in the team with Stevie being such a good player and legend at the club,” said Chalmers.

“I was coming here to work hard, hoping to show enough to get me in the team. With Stevie being injured I’ve been trying to take my chance by playing as well as I possibly can.

“I need to make the most of this opportunity.

“Every game I want to impress. Firstly, to help the team, but to also keep me in the team. I know that I need to play well to give the manager a decision when Stevie comes back.

“I’m just doing my best for the team and it’s good to know that you have a bit of pressure to perform.”

Having spent most of his career in the Celtic youth ranks, Chalmers has had to adapt to life in a first team and being a bigger part of a smaller club.

But how has he found that switch?

“It has been an easy transition coming from Celtic, we have a really good group of boys here,” he said.

“It’s a really well run club, the staff are so friendly and made me feel welcome straight away. It has made it a lot easier than what some might think.

“After being brought in by Ian and then him leaving, it wasn’t quite the start I was expecting. It was a bit of a shock, it was all new to me.

“I’m thankful for Ian bringing me in and giving me this chance, but it’s an experience I can take with me throughout my career.”