Shane McLoughlin insists there’s still a lot to come from Newport County despite their pre-season defeat to Kidderminster Harriers on Saturday.
The Exiles were beaten 2-0 by the Vanarama National League North side as goals from Ashley Hemmings and Trialist C were enough to seal the victory for the home side.
But despite the defeat at Aggborough, the Irishman believes his side can use today's test as a learning curve to better themselves going forward.
“Obviously you don’t like losing no matter when it is, but I think you can see that it’s a different style of football that we’re playing this year,” said McLoughlin.
“There’s a lot of new players, new staff and it takes time to adjust but we’re enjoying the challenge of it.
“You can see the differences. We’re getting better game by game, but it will take time like any other learning curve.
“The point of these games are to get up to speed and build the connections through the squad, and I feel like we’re all getting on really well.
“I definitely saw some good stuff today. Obviously the goals were disappointing, and we now know there is some stuff we can work on.
“We got into some really good positions and it’s just about adding the finishing touches.”
McLoughlin added another 60 minutes to his tank in the clash and featured in midfield alongside Aaron Wildig and Oliver Greaves as he looks to build new connections with his teammates across the field.
And the 27-year-old feels he is fitting into Nelson Jardim’s philosophy nicely and believes his versatility can benefit the squad this season.
“I’ve enjoyed the changes, so has everyone else,” he added.
“It’s football at the end of the day and these things happen. It’s something we all need to get on board with and then you can look forward at improving yourself to see the game differently.
“Growing up I was always a midfielder but over the years I’ve developed my game and can now play that wing back or full back role.
“At the end of the day, I’ll enjoy playing anywhere as long as I’m on the pitch, and that’s where I want to be.
“Different challenges come with every position and every time I play in a new one it gives me a better understanding of the players around me and what I can do to help them.
“Of course, playing in midfield is an option for me this season but we’ll just have to wait and see what happens throughout the season.”
McLoughlin, who is entering his second season in NP19, enjoyed a stellar debut campaign with the club last year.
And the defender is hoping to plot another successful campaign with the Exiles this season.
“I had a successful first year at the club with some great moments and I now need to build on that,” he continued.
“Hopefully I can avoid another long-term injury this season and better all my numbers. That’ll be a step up for me.
“I’m getting on really with all the new lads and we’re building a good camaraderie. It’s always nice at the start of the season to get some new faces in to freshen up the squad.
“Obviously, I was the new face last year and the new lads that have come in are a breath of fresh air and are all great.
"I’m really looking forward to getting to know them better now over the next few weeks.”