JOE Devera accepts the form of Swindon Town’s defence makes it difficult for him to get back into the side, but will grasp the chance of a return to the first team with both hands the moment it presents itself.

The former Barnet defender was arguably the Robins’ most consistent performer throughout September and appeared to have cemented his status as one of the first names on Paolo Di Canio’s teamsheet.

However, his last game was to be Town’s 3-3 draw at home to Hereford, with Di Canio then opting for the pairing of Aden Flint and Alan McCormack at centre-back.

The duo have gone on to form a formidable partnership, helping Swindon to keep four successive clean sheets.

And while Devera admitted that sitting on the sidelines is far from an ideal situation, he will continue to work hard in training to ensure he is fit and ready for an opportunity to get back into the team.

“For me personally it has not been ideal to not be playing but the defence has been doing well and keeping clean sheets, so I cannot complain too much. I just have to keep myself fit and ready to go,” he said.

“It is tough but that is just the way football is really where one minute you are in the side and the next you can be out, you just have to keep your focus and make sure that you don’t lose your head over not being in the team.

“The defenders are doing really well and hopefully they can keep it up because it is a good base to have to go up.”

Town head to Port Vale today looking to extend their winning run on the road to three matches.

And Devera revealed that confidence is high within the Robins camp that they can come away from Staffordshire with a result.

He added: “The confidence away from home is a lot better now and you can also feel it during the week in training.

“I am sure we will keep that going into the game.”