Top prospect Conor Fitzsimmons is hoping to make his Workington Town debut in the Ike Southward Memorial Trophy clash.

Fitzsimmons, on a season-long loan from Castleford Tigers, is keen to be involved in his first derby clash at Derwent Park, kick-off 3pm.

And he admitted there was no bigger debut than being thrown in at the deep end against long-time rivals Whitehaven.

"I can't wait if I am being honest," admitted the former Seaton amateur.

"It will be a great experience to get out there for the first time and the fact it is a derby makes it even better.

"I've watched the derbies since I was a little kid, so it will be great to be part of one.

"They are massive games with such a big rivalry."

Fitzsimmons joined up with the Town squad this week after being put through his pre-season paces with Castleford.

And he is looking forward to playing in front of a home crowd that will include many of his family and friends.

"I haven't been able to see many people from home, so it will be great that they can all come and watch me play again," added the loose forward.

"It will be good to be in front of all my mates and the local fans and hopefully we can win the trophy."

The 18-year-old has worked with coach Dave Clark in the past, during his time with Cumbria Storm and is looking forward to renewing the relationship.

And Fitzsimmons says the exciting mix of players Clark has brought to Derwent Park bodes well for the League One season.

"It's a mixed squad with experience and youth and they have brought more players in this week," he said.

"So, I think going forward we need to be pushing for the top four. I think we have got it in us to do that with this squad."

Dave Clark was due to name his 17-man squad for the match on Friday night.

"This is the first opportunity for the boys to get some reward for their efforts so far," he said.

"It is up to us to perform and, if we do that, then the results will look after themselves.

"Obviously, it is a derby which adds extra taste to the game and we know what it means to both clubs.

"We need to go out there, perform to our best and if that gets a result then it does.

"We are focusing on the season ahead and I want to see us starting to improve each week, which we have and this is another opportunity to do that."