CHRIS Killen believes that his temporary exit from Maine Road will help make him into a more complete player.

The young Manchester City forward has been loaned out to Second Division Port Vale to further his footballing education, rather than sit and languish in the Blues' reserve side.

He has made an excellent start to life in his new surroundings, scoring twice in two games and thrilling Vale manager Brian Horton with his all-round attacking play.

Being sent on loan is viewed by some players as the beginning of the end for them at particular clubs.

But New Zealander Killen, who has been a prolific scorer for both City's reserve and Academy sides, has revealed that he was sent away from the club with words of encouragement from boss Kevin Keegan ringing in his ears - and the news that he has no intentions of selling him.

''The gaffer told me not to be worried about going on loan again,'' the 20-year-old explained.

''He said that it would be better for me to go out and play regular league football.

''I have been playing for the reserves for a while now and the gaffer said that he would learn more about me playing in the Second Division against older professionals.

''Also, I need to be playing regularly as the reserves only play once or twice every couple of weeks.''

Impressive

His performances have left a deep impression on Horton. The former City boss would like nothing better than making Killen's arrangement more permanent, but acknowledges that the player has a bright future ahead of him.

''He's 6ft 1ins, with two good feet and very mobile,'' he said. ''It's hardly surprising then that Kevin knows he has a good player on his hands, though he believes the time he has with us will do him the world of good.''

Last year, Killen spent three months on loan at Wrexham and when he returned before Christmas he looked set for a first-team debut with the Blues.

But, after being named on the bench for the fourth round Worthington Cup tie with Ipswich Town, he saw his hopes washed away when a deluge of rain left referee Graham Poll with no alternative but to abandon the match.

Since then, Killen has been itching to get another taste of the big game atmosphere.

Indeed, he is even more anxious now to make his bow for the Blues considering his contract expires at the end of the season.

''The loan spell will do me good,'' Killen declared. ''I know that if I do well here, it will give me a better chance of getting into the first-team squad when I get back and of getting a new contract.''

And, the thought of working under Keegan thrills the powerful Kiwi.

''He's so enthusiastic,'' he said of the Maine Road boss. ''Being a forward, he shows you little things and is always working to help you better yourself.''

Killen admits that he has cast envious glances in the direction of Chris Shuker and Dickson Etuhu, players who he has performed alongside since he arrived in Britain more than three years ago.

But he has made it his major objective to line up alongside them in the City starting XI - sooner rather than later.

''Obviously I have been a little bit jealous,'' Killen admitted. ''But all the lads have done well. I just hope that I can play with them and show everyone what I can do.''

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