ANDREW Nicholas has been thwarted in his bid to become a 'Kop idol' but the Liverpool youngster would love to give Swindon Town fans something to sing about next season.

The 19-year-old left-sided defender met Andy King yesterday and a verbal agreement was reached on a 12-month deal.

Barring any hitches, he will report for pre-season training on July 1.

Despite initial disappointment at being released by Gerard Houllier, he is brimming with excitement at the challenge which lies ahead.

He also revealed that a chat with a Liverpool 'legend' helped ease the pain of his Anfield exit and simply fuelled his desire to succeed.

He said: "To be honest, I don't really know too much about Swindon or the players here, but it's a wonderful opportunity for me, a massive challenge and one I'm determined to take."

Nicholas has been compared favourably with Sami Hyypia and while flattered, the Liverpool-born youngster is not about to believe the hype.

He said: "I have heard the Hyypia comparison and it's obviously nice but what I want to make clear is that just because I've come from Liverpool doesn't mean I'm the finished product.

"I have still got a lot to learn but Andy King has shown that he is prepared to give youngsters a chance.

"He said he was short of left-sided players and my favourite position is as an attacking left-back.

"I don't imagine there are too many 6ft 2in left backs in Division Two."

Nicholas admits leaving Liverpool was a wrench but he refused to wallow in self-pity.

He said: "I was down for a couple of days after Liverpool said they weren't taking me on, but a chat with Steve Heighway really helped.

"He said the Liverpool route had been closed but it was not the end of the line for me as a footballer.

"I picked myself up, my agent told me about Swindon's interest, and here I am."

While the player is looking forward to life at Swindon, his manager is also hoping that the youngster completes a happy switch.

King said: "Andrew has had a look at the ground with his father, liked what he saw, and now it's just a matter of finalising matters.

"I have had very good reports about him and I like his attitude.

"Some in Liverpool find it hard to believe that he's been released.

"There are no guarantees from me. He has the same opportunity to impress as every other member of my squad who reports for pre-season training on July 1.

"I have to find seven recognised professionals to fill my squad.

"Then I want two or three youngsters of a type that I don't have on the books here who I think are capable of making a challenge to the seniors.

"The challenge is there for him to come in and show what he can do.

"As an Evertonian, I'll even forgive him for being a red-nose."