Frank Nouble believes there is a simple reason for the improvement in his game — he is playing more regularly with Town than at any of his previous clubs.
The fit-again striker heads for Middlesbrough tomorrow on the back of 15 starts and a further 17 substitute appearances, meaning he has been involved in all but four of the club’s fixtures in the current campaign.
Nouble, 22, said: "I’m enjoying it and I think we have had a good year. The more games I play, the better, because it’s hard when you are in and out of the side. My aim has always been to ensure that when I get my chance I make the most of it.”
The London-born player made a telling contribution in last week’s home defeat of Birmingham City, providing the low cross from which Daryl Murphy netted the all-important goal to ensure another three points for Town in their bid to claim a play-off place.
He added: "In the Birmingham match I played with freedom and it was enjoyable until I felt my hamstring and was taken off. It was the right thing to do, come off.
"I was worried that if I stayed on and did a few sprints it would take longer than a few days to get better. When I came off I went straight down the tunnel to get some ice on it.
"I thought I did alright in the game, so long may it continue. I enjoy it every time I’m on the pitch but obviously I want to stay in the team and play as often as possible.
"It’s down to me to stake my claim and my aim is to stay in the starting line-up right through to the end of the season.”