Zain Westbrooke is determined to repay the faith shown in him by manager Grant McCann after securing a new contract at Rovers.
The midfielder has endured a difficult time in the game over the last couple of years, leading him to take the option of cancelling his contract at previous club Bristol Rovers to seek out new employers.
That brought him to the Eco-Power Stadium in March, where his performances over the final few weeks of the campaign helped convince new boss McCann that he could help guide Westbrooke to a return to form.
And now the 26-year-old is ready to show his gratitude for being given the opportunity to do what he loves best.
“That’s exactly what I’ve wanted to bring back for the last couple of years,” he said. “I’ve been on uncertain terms, not being able to be out on the pitch and perform. They’ve given me an opportunity to do that so now I’ve got to repay them.
“I’ve played against their teams before and I’ve had conversations with them so I knew they knew who I was. But it’s nice to feel wanted, like any player does, and I’m glad that’s the case.
“It’s nice to have that security. The club have been really great with me, really transparent and honest and that’s all you can ask for. It’s all I’ve really needed from a club.
“I’m really happy that I’ve landed on my feet here and excited to start the new season.”
While results on the pitch were not as hoped in the later stages of last season, Westbrooke was pleased to be back playing football once again - although he does not believe Rovers supporters have seen anything close to his best just yet.
“Results are results and everyone wants to win but for me my main aim was to get back on the pitch and start enjoying it again, being around people that I can enjoy working with again,” he said.
“So on a personal note, I was really happy to come into work every day.
“Obviously I’ve got new targets for this year. We want to win more games and I want to play better football.”