'STORM survivor' David Duke is focused on re-establishing himself as a regular in the Town side while also expressing a desire to extend his stay in Wiltshire.

A torrent of water has passed under the County Ground bridge since the Scotsman signed from Sunderland in the summer of 2000, and at one stage it looked odds-on that Duke would go down with a sinking ship.

Thankfully, Town rode out the storm and calmer waters appear to lie ahead. At the club's recent annual general meeting, director Bob Holt said blue sky was now visible and Duke is anxious to be part of a brighter future.

He said: "The club has been through some tough times and at one stage there was a lot of doubt about its future. I like to think of myself as one of those individuals at the club who have weathered the storm, including people like Matty Heywood and Matty Hewlett, and I honestly believe we are stronger as a result of that."

Not only does the picture look brighter off the field, results on the pitch mean there are more smiles around than at any time during the Scotsman's four years at the County Ground.

He said: "Results are going well for us and we've got ourselves in a position to really challenge for a play-off place. Having been through the tough times I've mentioned, it would be fantastic to be part of a success story with Swindon Town."

While Andy King's decision to switch to a 4-4-2 system just before Christmas, saw Duke lose his left wing-back slot, he was recalled on the other flank for Saturday's win over Colchester.

Being naturally right-footed, he is happy in that role. Andy Gurney's return from suspension after Saturday's game at Notts County will leave him with a real battle to retain his place but Duke accepts competition for places is all part of building success.

He said: "If I get another start against Notts County and put in a good performance, then at least it's giving the manager something to think about.

"The ideal situation is that you have different options in all the positions in the team. As to whether being able to play in more than one role helps your chances, I'm not sure."

The point in the season where managers and players start considering contracts is rapidly approaching. Indeed, King has already held informal discussions with Andy Nicholas and Brian Howard about their respective futures.

Duke's current deal expires in the summer and he relishes the prospect of extending his stay.

He said: "I'm very happy here. The last couple of years have seen a real turnaround and as I said, it would be fantastic to be part of a successful future here."

If Town's youngsters defeat Cardiff City in the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup at the County Ground next Wednesday, they will be at home to either Leicester City or Cambridge United in round five.