ANTHONY Stewart admits he's surprised at the number of games he's played in pre-season - but says he needed them in order to get fit.

The 19-year-old featured in all but one of Wanderers' friendlies as injuries to Blues' established defenders opened the door for him.

He was glad of the opportunity to play instead of taking part in the bleep tests and miles of running usually associated with pre-season.

And having had a taste of first team football, after playing four times last season in League One, the teenager is looking to feature more regularly this time.

Stewart said: "I'm quite surprised I've played a lot. I'm not the best runner in pre-season, I get my fitness playing games.

"Last year I had a target to make my debut. This year I'm making it my target to have more than ten starts."

Blues have nine defenders on their books, with skipper Gary Doherty the elder statesman of the back line, and Stewart says he can learn from them all.

He said: "Doc and the other centre halves have been part of my learning experience after coming from the youth team, and playing first team football regularly has been a big help."