Nick Townsend says he wants to repay Barnsley's faith after making his loan switch to Oakwell permanent.

The 20-year-old 'keeper penned a three-year deal on Tuesday afternoon after Barnsley agreed an undisclosed fee with parent club Birmingham City.

He then played as Barnsley beat Scunthorpe United in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.

He said: "It's exciting because we're all young and pushing in the same direction.

"We all know what each other is going through and we do have some older lads to guide us as well.

"Every game that I can get is good for my improvement."

A decision to make a permanent move for Townsend was made following his display at Scunthorpe in the Capital One Cup.

He said: "The move had been in the works since I first joined on loan.

"Since the first game against Scunthorpe they've been back and forwards with the Blues trying to agree the terms. I'm glad that it's all done and dusted now.

"It's nice to be signed after playing one game. I've got to keep my high standards up and prove to everyone what I can do. "I've got to make sure I keep doing what I've been doing and repay the faith.

"I've enjoyed all the training sessions and they give me a lot of things to improve on."

Townsend is yet to make his league debut but says he isn't at Barnsley to sit on the bench and believes he will continue to develop under the guidance of former Birmingham goalkeeper coach John Vaughan who recommended him.

"I'm challenging for the number one spot (with Adam Davies).

"We're going to become better 'keepers from the competition. It's going to be competition every day and we'll see who can get it. It can only help the club.

"Vaughany was one of the main reasons behind me coming here because I know what he's about.

"I know if I'm not at 100 percent that he can get it out of me."