Carl Rushworth has gained valuable experience since making the step up into EFL football.
Training with Brighton & Hove Albion U23 to focus on his physicality and development meant he was ready to take the step up to the EFL when the option to join Walsall in Sky Bet League Two came up last season.
"There were lots of ups and downs, but it was another positive learning curve." says Carl.
"It was tough at stages, especially when we weren’t performing well as a team, but really good for me to experience things like having a new gaffer come in during a season and seeing what it’s like in the changing room after a game when things aren’t going so well.
"There is that little bit of pressure. Both gaffers there were really good with me, trying to take the pressure off me and give me the confidence to play my game. I knew there was lots at stake on these games - we needed wins and to stay up so players could pay mortgages."
City provided an opportunity to take a further step up to League One this summer and Carl has no doubt he is in the perfect place to continue his development.
"Lincoln were one of the first clubs to express an interest, and I got some really good first impressions after speaking to Jez George," says Carl.
"Coming off the back of a good season I had options, but knew this was a place I’d feel welcome and wanted. It’s definitely lived up to those high expectations.
"It’s a really good relationship with Sam Long and Jordan Wright. Being a goalkeeper is tough as only one of us can play, but Jordan and Sam support me and we all push each other - I know if I don’t play well then Jordan will come into the team and I’ll support him."
Carl Rushworth is the featured interview in the upcoming edition of ‘We Are Imps’. Secure your copy of the programme at selling points around the ground, including in the club’s ticket office, or have it delivered straight to your door by ordering online HERE!
This programme was produced for the original fixture on Saturday 10 September, so some sections are not up to date.