Lewis Haldane says his spell at Vale Park has helped to give him his confidence back, after a spell on the sidelines at Bristol Rovers.

The 24-year-old put pen to paper on a third month with Micky Adams's men earlier this week and says he's been pleased with the amount of first-team football he has been playing.

"I am delighted that I am staying and I am just looking forward to the next month. Under Football League regulations, I can only stay for 93 days, so we will have to see what happens after then. The main thing is that I hope the team can keep doing well.

"I've been playing a lot recently and I have been playing quite well so hopefully, I can keep my place in the team on Saturday and get a goal. I have hit the post in the last few games so I am getting closer. It will be great if I can find the back of the net at the weekend."

Haldane says he is also enjoying his role in a front three.

"We are all playing well and linking up well. That's throughout the whole team so I am enjoying it. It doesn't matter where I play - whether it's on the wing or up front - I will always be happy. The fact that I am in the team is the most important thing.

"Having competition for places keeps you on your toes. If you don't play well then the gaffer will pick someone else to come into the team. You need to try hard both in the games and in training everyday otherwise you are going to lose your place. It's been like that at every team I have played for really. I am used to it!

"My confidence took a knock when I didn't play at Bristol Rovers but I am getting that back now. That's football and you have to get on with it. I'm enjoying my football and hopefully that shows on the pitch so long may that continue."

Haldane says that Vale are in for a tough test when they play Blue Square Premier side Stevenage Borough this Saturday in the FA Cup.