MIDFIELDER James Dunne admits he’s more comfortable playing an attacking role for Swindon Town, despite featuring as right-back in his only competitive game of the season to date.

Dunne, 28, has been restricted to only one Checkatrade Trophy appearance this season after picking up a three-match League Two ban following his red card against Accrington Stanley in May – Town’s final league fixture of last season.

He appeared on the right side of defence in his one appearance following Kyle Knoyle’s minor hamstring tweak.

But while admitting he can do a job in the back four, the former Exeter man concedes he’s most comfortable playing a forward role.

He said: “When Phil (Brown) came in he let the leash off me a bit. I think it’s where I play my game best.

“At the back I can do a job, but my game is on the front foot and winning the ball high up, so I can give it to the players that score goals.

“I’ve enjoyed it since the manager came in. He’s granted me that license to go and play.”

Dunne is one of eight players battling over four midfield spots in the Town squad after manager Phil Brown added extra firepower to his middle ranks during the summer break.

The additions of Michael Doughty, Jak McCourt, Jermaine McGlashan, Martin Smith and Toumani Diagouraga have completely refreshed Town’s midfield look.

But competition can only promote hard work on the training ground, according to Dunne – who is hopeful of a spot in the starting 11 for this afternoon’s game against Tranmere Rovers.

He said: “That’s part and parcel of football. I like competition.

“Sometimes players can get too comfortable in their position, so I’m fine with there being competition for team places.

“Every day and every game you have got to be on it, otherwise there will be someone that will take your shirt.”

Hopes of reversing Town’s so far turbulent form when welcoming Micky Mellon’s side to the County Ground this afternoon are high, though Dunne echoed the pre-match thoughts of his manager – stating early chances must be taken.

Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup loss to Forest Green followed the same path as Town’s 90-minute display against Macclesfield on the opening day of the season – a game which Swindon eventually won following two late Michael Doughty penalty conversions.

“I didn’t see the Lincoln game, but the two games I’ve watched I do not know how we haven’t won the game in the first half,” said Dunne.

“It’s been similar to last season really. We’ve controlled the first half, and then we’ve let sloppy chances in during the second 45.

“We had a lot of chances on Tuesday before they got their goal, and then we’re chasing the game.

“From what I’ve seen so far, it’s been looking good.

“We’ve played four games so far, if there’s anything to worry about it should be how many goals we are conceding.

“We’ve been working on that – clean sheets win you games.”

JOIN HARRY ABBOTT AND MATTHEW DAVIES FOR MATCHDAY LIVE FROM THE ENERGY CHECK COUNTY GROUND TODAY AT SWINDONADVERTISER.CO.UK/SPORT