Charlie Burns believes being involved on a matchday has made him a better goalkeeper - but he's eager to continue improving.
“It’s a great experience,” he told mkdons.com. “At the start of the season, I set myself a few goals and being in the squad was one of them.
“Being around the matchday squad in particular is a good confidence booster. You get extra training during the warm-up so it helps with your sharpness.”
He added: “I was quite fortunate that I was in the squad a lot last year and it’s a good opportunity to watch and learn from Dave under the supervision of Healdy.”
Cropper has returned to light training and is hoping to be available for selection again soon but Burns is determined to keep hold of his spot.
He said: “Cody’s been a great addition because he’s something different to me and Dave. For me personally, it’s someone different to learn off. It’s good competition and I’m just focusing on doing the best I can.
“I feel like I’m improving every day and I’ve found the more involvement you have with the first team, the more you improve. I’ve kicked on but I know I’ve got to keep working hard.”