Alan Julian believes he is mentally stronger now after a testing first half of the season.

The 26-year-old started the campaign as the club’s first choice goalkeeper but was ousted by Simon Royce before going on the transfer list.

With Royce now injured after a car accident, Julian, pictured in action, is making the most of his second chance and hopes his new outlook will reap rewards.

He said: "I love playing football and that’s all I want to do. That’s the reason for me going on the transfer list.

"It was getting frustrating sitting on the bench but I have an opportunity now and I think I’ve done well in the last two games.

"At the beginning of the season I played four games and lost my place. That’s fine, it’s not a problem. I know I’m in the team now and it’s a nice feeling where you don’t feel under pressure for your place.

"I feel different this time around. At the beginning of the season I felt a bit under pressure but now I don’t. I’ve learned from that and I think it’s made me a stronger person.

"From a psychological point of view you shouldn’t worry about things you can’t affect. I had a lot of doubts in my head at the beginning of the season but they are gone now.

"There is a lot of pressure but sometimes you just need to go out and play football and enjoy it.

"You obviously want to win and it’s serious but at the end of the day it’s a game of football.

"It’s a true saying that a week in football is a long time and it really is. Things can change so much.

"Things are going well now but I just need to make sure I keep working hard, prepare right and things will continue to go well."