You have got to be mentally strong.

Oduor has fought his way back into the spotlight after being dropped from the squad following last month’s loss at Swindon.

Alexander left him out altogether for the Wimbledon game – but the utility player has fought his way back to play his part in three straight wins.

The City boss has demanded to see more from him, throwing down a very public challenge, and Oduor feels the shock of being left out has provided an extra incentive to show his best form.

He said: “It’s obviously difficult. As a footballer, you’re doing well but then there are going to be times where the manager just feels you need some time out.

“The biggest thing then is not to let it get in your head. Carry on in training, keep going and telling yourself what you’re good at and what you need to improve.

“You have got to be mentally strong in this game. People might not understand how hard it is sometimes coming in and just cracking on and proving to everyone and yourself that you are good enough and can do things.

“It’s hard when you’re not in the team. But we’ve got quite a few good players in the forward line and everyone’s fighting for it.

“That helps improve you as well because you are always pushing each other.”

It might have been tough to hear but Oduor appreciated the honesty from his manager.

“He’s a good guy. He’s honest and will tell you how he feels and will have a conversation with you.

“You want consistency in football. It’s hard as players when you are chopping and changing managers all the time.

“It would be good if he was to stick around but also that’s down to us in the changing room. We all work for each other and we’re all looking to work and succeed.

“It’s a good changing room, to be fair. There are no bad eggs.

“Obviously you’re disappointed if you’re not in but you know when you need to go out there, you’ll work as hard as you can.

“You can see people are disappointed when they’re not in the team but nobody really lingers and keeps it round and brings bad energy and negativity to the squad.”

City are five points off seventh after their weekend frustration with 13 games to play. With consecutive home dates to come, the picture could soon be transformed again.

“Everything can change in a week,” added Oduor. “It’s all about concentrating on the next game.

“We don’t want to look too far ahead and get clouded. Just concentrate on what’s in front of you and then go from there.

“You can have moments when you’re thinking if it will be happen but as a team, we know that we shouldn’t be down there.

“When things click, we can definitely be a good side in this league and can push.

“I feel we’ve shown what we’re about. Now we need to continue that.

“What’s good about the league is that you do play a lot of games. Even though it’s difficult, a lot can change in a week or two.

“We’re definitely in the mix. Everyone wants to succeed, get trophies and win promotion.

“That’s definitely the goal. There are still quite a few games left and we’ll take them one by one.”