Coventry City

Christie became the 12th player to score in the league this season with his brilliant effort in the second-half against Walsall in the 5-1 win.

The goal capped off a brilliant run of form for the full-back who has earned praise in recent weeks from both manager Mark Robins and captain Carl Baker.

His form has kept Clarke out of the team recently but Christie believes the competition between the two Academy graduates has made him a better player.

The 20-year old said: “It is really healthy competition between us and he is a really good friend of mine off the field as well.

“I try not to think about it but I know he (Clarke) is always going to be there pushing for a first-team spot because he is a great player.

“He started off the season really well and when he has played, it is obvious he has had a good season.

“I have just got to try and cement that place and make it mine. I have been playing well and I just want to continue that.

“After being out injured for so long, I just want to play games. We are both professionals and he is pushing me hard for the starting place which means he is making me a better player. It is good to have competition throughout the squad and this is no exception.”

Christie is set to start in his sixth consecutive league match having formed a good partnership with Baker on the right wing.

Christie hopes he can add more goals to his game in the coming weeks. He added: “It was a great moment for me to score and if anything, I was a bit relived because I didn’t score last season and I missed some good opportunities.

“It is part of a player’s make-up to want to score, no matter where you play on the pitch. I am no different and hopefully I can score a few sooner rather than later.

“Everyone is chipping in with goals at the moment and we have to make sure we continue to do that.”