GOALKEEPER Lenny Pidgeley is determined to reclaim his position as undisputed number one for Newport County AFC after Joe Day returned to Peterborough United.

The former Chelsea stopper has endured a frustrating three months on the sidelines as manager Justin Edinburgh brought in loan signing Day to take his place.

The Posh youngster inspired County to a run of only one defeat in his 14 league matches between the posts and Edinburgh has stated his desire to bring Day back in January.

Pidgeley admits he has found life at Rodney Parade difficult since being dropped in August and that he wouldn’t have coped with the situation in his younger days.

But the 30-year-old, still an Exiles hero after his inspired display in the Conference play-off final victory over Wrexham at Wembley in May 2013, says he has worked harder than ever with goalkeeping coach Ryan Mackerness to reclaim his starting spot.

“I’ve enjoyed pretty much every minute of my time at the club but I’d be lying if I said I’d enjoyed the last few months,” said Pidgeley.

“To be playing week in and week out for two and a half years for the club and then to come out of the team after only four league games this season has been really tough.

“Joe has come in and done really well so I couldn’t really complain but it’s been very frustrating. I’ve got to make up for lost time now.”

Pidgeley feels he should have been given more time to recover his form at the start of this season but praised his replacement Day for some stunning performances.

“I felt it was a little bit harsh (to be dropped),” he said. “I feel an experienced keeper like myself could have ridden it out.

“But obviously Justin made the decision to bring Joe in and Joe’s done excellently so there’s no point moaning over it now.

“Joe is a top lad and I’ve not got a bad word to say about the guy,” he added.

“He’s really impressed me in training and obviously he’s been showing that in the games as well.

“I’ve roomed with him for all the away trips and he’s a top keeper. I expect him to go on and do great things in the game.”

Pidgeley is not concerned that Edinburgh has so far refused to confirm whether he or Jamie Stephens will play at Carlisle United on Saturday.

“If I’m selected I feel I’m ready,” he said. “I’ve been working hard with Ryan over the past few months that I’ve been out of the team and if called upon I feel like I could step back in.

“The old me would have probably moaned about it and not trained hard while I was out of the team but I’m in a good place now.”