Howe hopes to impress manager Darren Ferguson (FCPix)

Striker Rene Howe says he hopes to challenge for a first-team place at Peterborough United when he returns from his loan spell at Rochdale.

The 21-year-old has scored nine times for Dale, helping them qualify for the League Two play-offs.

He told BBC Radio Cambridgeshire: "I've got three years at Peterborough and I'd like to come back and prove myself.

"I've been playing first-team football at Rochdale and when I get back I'll be able to go for the regular first-team."

Howe admitted he was disappointed not to form a part of manager Darren Ferguson's first team when he first arrived at London Road, but said he was enjoying his time at Rochdale.

I've scored goals and that's what I plan to do in the future Peterborough striker Rene Howe

"I did feel that [disappointment] but the team were doing well and Aaron Mclean and Craig Mackail-Smith were forming a good partnership.

"I thought, 'I need to get some games under my belt for next season' and I've done it and improved in every game I've been at Rochdale."

Now Howe says he is ready to help Posh in their first season in League One

"A couple of years ago I was playing at Bedford Town in the Conference South so I've made a few steps up since them and proven myself.

"I've scored goals and that's what I plan to do in the future."