DEFENDER Grant Hanley is loving life as a member of Sam Allardyce's first team squad.

The 18-year-old centre back signed a five-year deal earlier in the week, committing his future to the club until the summer of 2015.

This time last season Hanley was part of Gary Bowyer's under 18 squad, but 12 months on the Scottish under 19 captain is part of the first team and enjoying the pre-season preparations.

"It has been hard work but it has been brilliant, it has been really good," said Hanley.

"Just being in and around the first team is totally different from being down at the Academy, but it is really enjoyable."

After making his senior debut against Aston Villa on the final day of the 2009-10 season, Hanley has featured this pre-season in the games against SK Sturm Graz, Fleetwood Town and Huddersfield Town, but it is the Australian trip and Rovers' opening fixture in the Sydney Festival of Football that excites the Dumfries-born defender the most.

"Australia will be another great experience," added Grant. "It is tournament football so it is again different to playing in the Premier League, but it is another experience I'm looking forward to.

"I'm a Rangers fan, so it would be nice to play against them."

Tickets for the Sydney Festival of Football are available now through www.Ticketek.com.au with Adult prices starting from just AUS$29