KIBAN Rai has been left in no doubt that minutes need to be earned as the Newport County AFC academy prospect targets more action in the League Two run-in.

The 18-year-old midfielder made his senior debut for the Exiles with a brief cameo off the bench in Salford and made his first Rodney Parade outing at the death in Tuesday’s 1-1 draw with AFC Wimbledon.

Rai was born and raised in Brecon to Nepalese parents and played football for the Corries in the town before earning a spot with Merthyr’s academy.

From there he moved to County and the youngster, who has been part of the PFA’s Asian Inclusion Mentoring Scheme, has continued to make steps.

READ MORE: How County aim to tap into the academy talent

Rai trained with the first team in pre-season under James Rowberry and then caught the eye of Graham Coughlan, who felt his attitude and application deserved a shot.

“If you’d have asked at the start of the season whether I’d make my league debut then it would have been a goal and aspiration, but I wouldn’t have thought I’d be in the position I am today,” he said.

“I was grateful to the gaffer for giving me the opportunity and I will keep working hard, keep my feet on the ground and try to make more appearances.

“I’ve been developing in my two years as a scholar, the gaffer saw me in a game and I am grateful for the opportunity, so hopefully I can keep trying to impress.”

Like his PSG legend namesake that won the World Cup with Brazil in 1994, Rai is an attacking midfielder who wants to create.

However, he knows that the nuts and bolts are needed in addition to flair to cut it as a professional.

South Wales Argus: Newport County midfielder Kiban RaiNewport County midfielder Kiban Rai (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

“You need to be on it every single day,” said Rai, who can play across the forward line.

“The gaffer always says that everyday habits create performance so I try to live by that. I’ll just keep working hard, stay humble and try to take opportunities.”

The teenager was brought on against the Dons to lock horns with a resolute defence featuring 33-year-old Wales legend Chris Gunter, 34-year-old Alex Pearce and 30-year-old Aaron Pierre.

Rai has gone from development football to the senior game: “Even more than physically, you have to be mentally strong to compete with them. As long as you are aggressive and focused then you can compete.”

Rai, defender Evan Cadwallader and Harrison Bright are youngsters that have been included in matchday squads by Coughlan since he took the reins.

County aren’t blessed with a big roster and are likely to soon be plotting for the future with League Two safety secure, but there will be no freebies from the management.

“The gaffer is not going to just give someone an opportunity because it’s a small squad,” said Rai.

“There are really good players in the changing room and you have to fight to earn a place, which is what I am trying to do.”

Rai will aim to add to his appearances at Tranmere Rovers on Saturday afternoon (kick-off 3pm).