1. Develop a strong work ethic: First-team football demands high levels of fitness, skill, and discipline. It is essential to cultivate a strong work ethic and dedicate yourself to regular training sessions, healthy eating, and adequate rest.

2. Focus on your strengths: Identify your unique strengths and work on developing them. Whether it is your pace, passing ability, or finishing skills, hone your abilities until you are a standout player in your position.

3. Learn from the senior players: Observe and learn from the senior players in your team. Watch how they approach training sessions, how they conduct themselves on and off the pitch, and how they manage the pressures of playing at the top level.

4. Develop a winning mindset: As an academy player, you may have been used to playing for fun, but first-team football is a different level. Developing a winning mindset and always striving for success will help you to perform at your best and make the most of every opportunity.

5. Stay humble and patient: Becoming a first-team player is not easy, and it takes time. Stay humble, keep working hard, and be patient. Your opportunity will come, and when it does, be ready to seize it with both hands.

Remember, becoming a first-team football player requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. But with the right attitude and approach, you can make your dreams a reality.