CHRIS Routis reckons his future at City will lie in midfield not as a central defender.

The Frenchman has started his last three games in a more advanced right-sided role – a position he had not previously played for almost a decade.

Routis demonstrated his growing confidence in the switch from the back by scoring his second goal of the season last weekend.

And with Filipe Morais still suspended for the upcoming home clashes with Oldham and Chesterfield, the 25-year-old’s chance to nail down the spot will continue.

“It’s a good moment for me because I’m playing again,” said Routis, who had spent four months out of the first-team picture after a poor display against Oldham in October.

“I’ve worked hard for this and I’m happy. The gaffer has given me the chance in midfield and I need to take it.

“I played midfield when I was younger but not since I was 16 when they made me centre back.

“I know what I need to do but now I’m not a young footballer any more so it’s more difficult, especially in England.

“It’s not the same as playing centre back. You just win headers against strikers a lot of the time and clear the ball.

“Now in midfield I need to pass the ball more and have to stay calm. I also do a lot of running.

“The first time I played on the right at home (against Crawley), my legs felt terrible after 65 minutes. But now I am getting better physically.

“The gaffer thinks I can be good in this position so I’m making a lot of effort.”

Phil Parkinson has been coaching Routis by showing him video clips of areas where he needs to improve – as well as showing what he has done right.

He added: “The gaffer put a video on for me before the last games. He spoke with me about when I make good or bad decisions.

“I think he is happy now but I need to play the position more. The more games I have there, the more I feel confident.

“I needed a first goal (as a midfielder). If the midfield don’t score a goal or put passes in, then maybe the gaffer will make changes, so you need to be decisive.

“I’m versatile because I can play defence as well but now I have to concentrate on my new position. I think the gaffer needs me more in midfield than at centre back.”