Conor Townsend is loving life at Dundee United but believes things could be about to get even better for the Tannadice club.
The left-back, on loan for the season from Hull City, made an encouraging start for the Tangerines only to miss a chunk of the autumn because of a foot injury.
He made it back at the end of October and is now looking forward to the Tangerines’ frantic festive period.
Townsend believes that a successful run of results during that time – United face Aberdeen, Celtic, St Johnstone then Dundee – then United will be entitled to look forward to a guid New year.
“It has the potential to be a really good season for us,” he said.
“Obviously, over the course of the rest of December and then into January we have a lot of big matches, starting with Aberdeen at home on Saturday.
“If we can come out of that period with wins behind us and a few points on the board then we can really kick on.
“We are up there in the league and doing well in both cups so it’s an exciting time to be at United.
“I am glad to be involved.
“Things are going well for me and the team.
“After the Ross County match on Friday I went back home to England at the weekend for a little break because I don’t know if I will be able to do so over Christmas because of all the important games we have.
“It was nice to see the family and relax for a bit but it was probably the calm before the storm because we have a big month ahead.
“These are the games you really look forward to,
“I missed the first Dundee derby so am really keen to play in the one at New Year.
“They will all be tough games but if we can play as well as we have been doing as a team then I think we can do well.”
Earlier this week, assistant manager Simon Donnelly mentioned a step-up in pace at United’s training sessions.
Townsend believes that has been down to players who have been given their chance by manager Jackie McNamara wanting to get back into his plans.
“The quality of our squad has meant that the standard of training has always been good but recently it seems a little bit more intense,” he said.
“That is probalby because a lot of lads have had a taste of first-team football and want it again.
“That is ideal for the club as a whole.
“There is real competition for places and the younger lads have all come in and done really well.
“That means you have to play well every game, otherwise you will be out and someone else will be in your place.”
As for his future, Townsend is just happy wo wait and see what happens at the end of his loan deal.
“I am not sure if anyone from Hull has been watching me but all I am doing is looking to do as well for myself as I can,” he added.
“I don’t know what is going to happen in future but I am really enjoying it here.
“We have a good set of lads here and I am happy at United.”