Winger is now a regular in the side...
Irish winger Anthony Forde has credited head coach Sean O’Driscoll for his recent upturn in form.The 22-year-old has been a regular fixture under O'Driscoll, starting nine of the last 12 league and cup matches, including six in a row.
Before then, Forde had only made six starts out of a possible 26.
And the ex-Wolves man has thanked O’Driscoll – not just for giving him more game time – but for providing advice on how to become a better player.
“He’s given me a chance to play games and I think I’ve done well for him,” said Forde.
“Off the pitch as well, he’s helped me by giving me little tips on my game here and there.
“He’s been really good to me since he’s come in. He’s been a big factor in my rise in form.”
Forde believes that playing regularly under O’Driscoll has been key to his recent improved performances.
“At the start of the season I would be in a game and the next one I might not play, then I’d be back in again,” he said.
“When you play a few games consistently your sharpness comes back, you can kick on and do what you know you’re capable of.
“As I’ve played a more consistent amount of games, I feel my performances have been getting better.
"At the minute I’m quite happy with them and I want to keep going and help the team.”
And Forde believes he is a better footballer now than he was last season.
"You should set a target of improving every season," he added.
"I think I’d played a few more games at this stage last season but in the games I’ve played this season, I’ve been more effective.
"I’ve become a better and stronger player, mentally and physically."