Junior Daniel targets second Mansfield Town promotion

The left-sided utility player, who helped Stags to Conference title glory, goes straight into the squad for Saturday’s trip to Newport County with Stags fifth in League Two and said: “If we can get promotion again like we did from the Conference to League Two I think that will be a great achievement.

“I have come in today and with the buzz around here it feels like a really good time for the club at the minute.

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“Since I left I have kept a close eye on Mansfield, hoping they’ll do well.

“It feels good to see some old faces and some new ones as well. I’ve been welcomed back in with open arms and it feels good.”

Daniel said it felt a different, but better, place than when he left in the summer of 2014.

“I am not saying a bad word about anyone in the past but it feels a lot more professional,” he said.

“A lot of things have changed since I’ve been away. There is a buzz about the place.

“I know the manager. He is a good guy and wants to do well. Hopefully I can come in and do well for him and the team.

“He expects the best from all his players and wants you to put in 100 per cent every game. Anything less than that and he will push you to get the maximum out of you.

“It’s a great club and, hopefully, if we can get promoted this year, then I think we can go places.”

Although he has fallen out of favour at Vale Park, Daniel feels his two seasons at League One level have made him a better player.

“I have enjoyed it at Port Vale,” he said. “It’s been a good time. Obviously I’ve been in and out of the team but when I’ve been in the team I have thoroughly enjoyed my time there.

“Knowing the players and the manager was a big part of me moving here on loan.

“I am not going to be there (at Vale) next season, so we will see what happens.

“I think playing in a higher division has helped me a lot, and playing with different players than the Conference and with Mansfield in League Two. I think I have progressed as a player.”

On his trusty left foot, he added: “It’s the same. It’s still got a lot of power in it, so hopefully I can get my shots off and get some goals for Mansfield.”