Dundee United’s Michal Szromnik admits he is a stronger person after suffering a nightmare beginning to his career with the club last season.
The Polish keeper was selected to start between the sticks on Saturday against Ross County by new boss Mixu Paatelainen.
The 22-year-old gave an assured performance as he helped his side to what could prove to be a priceless victory as they look to work their way off the foot of the Premiership table.
His display against the Staggies was in sharp contrast to the last campaign when Szromnik was blamed for conceding two goals against St Johnstone on his debut and then was sent off after just five minutes in the next game against Inverness.
Now that he has been given another opportunity by his Paatelainen, Szromnik is determined to keep hold of the No.1 jersey.
He said: “I certainly enjoyed this game compared to my first last season.
“That wasn’t the best. It was hard for me in the next game as well.
“I am a stronger person right now because I had to fight with that in my head.
“It has definitely made me stronger on and off the pitch.”
He added: “I was waiting for my chance but when you are second-choice goalkeeper, you can’t expect to play because the team have lost you have to be ready all the time.
“I didn’t come here from Poland to sit on the bench. Back home, I was playing in the Polish championship.
“So I now need to move forward and I hope today is going to be a good beginning for me.”