Sean McLoughlin insists Blackburn Rovers must use their form under Michael O'Neill as a springboard after a disappointing campaign.
Rovers secured survival with a game to spare but spent most of the campaign fighting at the wrong end of the table. Injuries, inconsistent results and another head coach change made it another turbulent season.
Despite that, there have been highlights, and a clear upturn in form under O'Neill. The week where defeat at Oxford United was followed up with a comeback win at Millwall, stands out as a turning point.
“It has been a tough season, there have been a lot of ups and downs throughout the course of the season," he reflected.
"Injuries, games being called off, change of manager. It has not been ideal, it has been eventful, but we got the job done and that was the main thing.
"In the last few months, when we knew we were down there, we knew we needed to get the job done and get those wins in, which we did. I think we need to look at the positives from the season, regroup and go again in pre-season.
“We haven’t achieved what we want to achieve, I think that is clear to see. There have been so many negatives, but on the flip side of that there have been some special moments.
"Preston at home, the last-minute winner, Millwall away, following up that result against Oxford, there have been some moments where we can be proud of ourselves."
The form under O'Neill has been that of a top-half side. Considering the absences, it gives McLoughlin confidence that Rovers can compete higher up.
It underlines how important it will be to keep O'Neill and try to maintain some stability in the playing squad after a huge turnover last summer.
"The lads have rallied, especially the games since the new manager has come in, we have really shown some character," he reflected.
"We are disappointed with the result (against Leicester), we would have liked to finish on a positive note.
"But the gaffer showed us the league table from the games since he came in and we were eighth or ninth (before the final day), so the signs are there that we can achieve something with this group. If we prepare well over the summer, when we come back we should be in good form.”
McLoughlin made 44 appearances for Rovers and racked up the most minutes. His availability was invaluable considering the injuries around him.
His form under O'Neill was improved too and he insists he's enjoyed his time at Ewood Park, even if he hopes for better on the pitch.
“I have really enjoyed it. I know the stuff on the pitch hasn’t been going amazingly, but I think there are a lot of signs to be hopeful for," McLoughlin insisted.
"The fans can probably see that as well and the way we finished the season, there are things to look forward to. I have thoroughly enjoyed it.
“I will be looking forward to coming in and getting a full pre-season. It is hard when you are coming in just before the season, trying to build bonds with players and stuff.
"I have been lucky with injuries. I have tried to prepare myself and recover as well as possible to try and make sure I am available for the club. There will be much of the same – obviously enjoy the summer but come back for pre-season ready to go again.”
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