Andy Boyle believes that showing patience has been important for his this season - before his man of the match display on Wednesday night.
The Irish defender had to wait to get his first league start under boss Alex Neil but he took the opportunity and was a stand-out performer in the loss to Aston Villa.
Speaking to iFollow PNE, Boyle spoke of the difficulties in not playing, but also understanding why: “When you’re not playing it can be tough at times, you’ve got to be patient and bide your time; and wait for an opportunity and a chance to go out and play.
“The lads that have been playing have been brilliant and had such a good start as well. I’ve no complaints in that sense but it’s still tough at times.
“It’s patience that you’ve got to show and when you get your chance you’ve got to go out and prove, hopefully stake a claim for future games.
“That’s the way I have to look at it, when you get your chance you have to make sure you grasp it with both hands. It’s been a long time coming but as I say, you can’t really complain because we’ve done so well.
“I just want to go in and hopefully play as many games as I can and as well as I can – every time the manager picks his team hopefully I’m in his thoughts.”
With the defence hit further against Villa, with Josh Earl and Calum Woods both picking up knee injuries in the first half, Alan Browne had to deputise in the defence for PNE.
With Kevin O’Connor also making his league debut, it gave North End three Irishmen in their four-man back line; and with the changes made during the game, Andy thought the lads adapted well.
“I suppose we could all understand each other anyway! I thought the lads that came in did really well, it was difficult with two changes in the back line at half time, it’s not easy.
"We kept a clean sheet second half, we defended okay and we were probably the better side really, second half.
“It’s funny how football changes so quickly, a couple of weeks ago, obviously not playing and being out of it a bit – then coming in and being one of the senior members of the back line.
“It’s funny how football works but I just tried to prepare the best that I could be and when you’re not playing it’s important that you stay fit, stay ready and be ready to come into the game.
Now Boyle is looking forward to the Ipswich game on Saturday, securing a win before the international break and sending the travelling away fans home happy.
“The games before the international break are always important because there’s two weeks between games and it leaves a sour taste in the mouth if you get beat beforehand.
“The support away from home all season has been brilliant, I’m sure on Saturday it’ll be no different. It’s such a long trip and anyone who does make the trip – we want to make sure they enjoy the game and go home with a positive result.”
To watch the full interview with Andy Boyle, click the video above.