VINCENT Kompany convinced Dara Costelloe that linking up with Mark Hughes at City was his best career move.

The Irish striker was handed an instant debut after joining on loan from Burnley.

Costelloe played just under an hour in the goalless draw at Wimbledon after training only once with his new team-mates.

The 20-year-old will have more time to prepare for his first home action this weekend against Carlisle - and get a good chance to understand Hughes’ methods.

Clarets boss Kompany has already given a glowing reference about his former manager to the young prospect.

“Vinny has a lot of good words to say about him,” said Costelloe. “He’s a good guy, a good manager, so I’m hoping to learn a lot.

“He was brilliant as a player, one of the best. I can learn an awful lot from him.

“As a manager, he’s done it all. He’s coached in the Premier League so I think it will only benefit me.”

Costelloe had a good chat with Hughes before crossing the Pennines and watched the last home against Rochdale.

Speaking to the club's YouTube channel, he added: “The manager said that I suit the style of play and can help them to get promotion, so I’m hoping I can do that and really fit into the squad.

“Hopefully I can help with goals. I’m a hard worker and run myself into the ground.

“I like to think I’m a decent enough player as well so hopefully I can help the team with that.

“I can be dangerous in the final third and help out the team by getting goals and assists.

“The fan base is unbelievable here and I can’t wait to get out and play on the pitch.

“They make a lot of noise and I’m hoping they’ll give me a good welcome. I’ll give my all every week.”

Costelloe made his senior debut aged just 15 with Galway before Burnley gave him a chance in English football.

“It was a difficult transition at the start but I would never go back and play in the League of Ireland.

“I love it over here and I’m hoping I can stay a lot longer.

“It’s been brilliant. Vinny has helped me out a lot giving the young players a chance.

“The experience of playing at that level is unbelievable and something I’ll never forget playing in front of that many fans.

“I’m hoping to kick on at that level and continue in my journey in football.”