RYAN Shotton believes Alty's deserved 0-0 draw against high-flying Burton proved they have too much quality to be languishing in the Blue Square Premier's bottom four.

Nigel Clough's side arrived at Moss Lane on the back of an 11-game unbeaten run and although the Robins didn't stop them extending that sequence, they more than matched the promotion hopefuls.

An outstanding rearguard action, underpinned by Shotton and his central defensive colleague Darren Tinson, provided a solid platform for the much-improved performance.

And the 19-year-old Stoke man, who has just extended his loan spell at Moss Lane for another two months, is confident it can act as the catalyst for a charge up the table.

He told SAM Sport: "We're very happy with the result. They are a tough team who can move the ball around well but I think we did a really good job to stop them scoring.

"Our current league position doesn't reflect the quality we have in this squad. We've played a lot of teams, especially at home, that have not dominated or outplayed us but have still taken the points.

"We do have the quality to start winning games.

"I'm glad to be here for another couple of months and it's good for both me and Alty that I've got the chance to play more games here. Hopefully I can help them get a couple more wins at home."

Unlike many young hopefuls, who see loan spells as a necessary evil to force themselves into first team reckoning, Shotton has thoroughly enjoyed his time at Moss Lane.

It has been a big step up from reserve team football for the youngster and he believes it is a vital part of his football education.

He said: "This division is a lot different to what I expected.

"It's much better quality than I thought it would be. You maybe don't expect much football to be played at this level but some of the pitches we've played on are like bowling greens and I've faced some really good teams.

"It's much harder than reserve team football and a real physical challenge.

"But I'm learning a lot, especially playing alongside Tinno (Darren Tinson). He talks a lot and is always there covering in case there are any mistakes. It's a great help."